5 Reasons It’s Time To Switch Up Your Workout Routine

Is it time to make a change?

There are always the exercises we know and love. And if being a creature of habit works for you, that’s great!

As fads come and go, and new (and quite creative!) exercises come into the picture, sometimes it can be interesting to switch it up! Furthermore, there are some times where you just need something fresh and new to keep your engagement high. So, what are some signs that it might be time to try something new?

1) You’ve Lost Your Zest For Exercise

It happens to us all! The excitement to get to the spin class has declined. It feels more like a chore than a pleasure… And somehow, suddenly, you dread the thought of exercising?

This could be a sign that it’s time to try something new! Sign up for a Zumba class, hit the outdoors to get a sense of nature. Get outside of your comfort zone to see if your zest for movement returns.

2) A Body Part Is Feeling Funky

Maybe it’s your knee? Your hip? It might not be an injury per se, but you’re aware that you’re feeling a little off. Rather than pushing through, try a different form of exercise completely! Give the repetitive motion a break. It might just be the time that body part needs to rest and recovery so you can come back into action strong.

3) You’re In An Emotional Slump

Sometimes emotional slumps are perpetuated by the monotony of your day. While there are some aspects of the day you just cannot control, the type of exercise you do is one of them. Making a conscious effort to go for a swim instead of doing the same 45 minute elliptical workout might just give your serotonin a boost and make you feel more alive, giddy, and fresh.

4) You’re Looking To Expand Your Community

One of the best ways to stay in love with movement is to find people you want to work out with who also love to move. Finding community members across different exercise activities gives you a huge community of workout pals. Try joining a running club, signing up for a golf clinic, or even chatting some people up after barre class. Chances are, the individuals you meet are also searching for community members in the exercise realm.

5) You’ve Adjusted Your Fitness Goals

This is a BIG one. No matter your age, gender, previous workout preference… It is always ok to adjust your fitness goals. We often have trouble with this one if our identity is tied to a particular activity. Think: You’ve always been a runner. It’s who you are! Well, it is OK to pivot to strength training or spinning, etc, if you have a new movement goal. Maybe you need more muscle. Maybe you want to cut back on high-intensity cardio. Regardless of the reason, it’s always acceptable to change your exercise routine based on your current needs.