An unconventional way out of your workout rut

Good morning and happy Sunday to al!

You know, I've noticed lately that A LOT of my blogging friends have been writing posts related to workout ruts and how to get out of 'em. Many suggest trying a new class or switching up your regular routine. It's really good for your metabolism to keep your body guessing, and engaging different muscle groups by doing different types of workouts accomplishes that. If you've plateaued, even changing how you do your cardio instead of what cardio you do can have a significant impact; for example, try HIIT intervals on the treadmill or elliptical to get your heart rate up and increase your after burn.

Others who've posted on this topic have suggested moving your workouts outdoors since the weather is getting better, and see if that doesn't have a positive impact on your wellbeing and positivity (yeah, I dare you not to feel better after goofing around like a kid outside!). With all this fancy gear out there these days, there's really no excuse not to get outdoors for a little fresh air any time of year, but major, MAJOR props to those of you who've run 5+ miles before the sun comes up on those endless nights in November!)

In my own experience, I've found that I can rediscover my motivation in ways that I never thought possible: reading a great book, short meditations, completing a home improvement project, visiting a local attraction that I've been dying to see. Since these ruts are almost entirely mental, sometimes just shifting our mental state and concentrating on something other than how to get back out there to workout does the trick without much effort. So I dare you: next time you're feeling a little less than motivated to get your fitness on, try checking something pleasurable off your to do list. It'll at least get you distracted from your woe-iss-me-I-can't-work-out-attitude and give you some fresh perspective.

That can never hurt, right?!