We all have routines or daily recurrences that we absentmindedly go through. Routines can makes things easier or instill a sense of comfort to us physically and mentally. The problem with routines is eventually we become robots to our habits which results in a lack of inspiration and ultimately results.
This is definitely true when it comes to fitness. A high percentage of people have been doing the same exercises, cardio and weight training for years. It reminds me of putting a song on repeat and listening to it over and over again. “Eye of the tiger” is a great song, but it gets old after the hundredth time. In order for us to grow and challenge our mind and body we need to always be evolving our workouts.
How do we evolve? The first part of changing a routine is mental, and requires putting our ego in check. Just because you label yourself as a bodybuilder, yogi, powerlifter or crossfitter, doesn’t mean you can’t think outside the box and try something new. The fitness industry today needs more people who are willing to see the value in everything.
Once we realize that it’s okay to break routine, the next step is take action. Start by signing up for a new class, different gym, or hire a personal trainer. The problem physically with a routine is that your body becomes used to doing the same exercises, which in turn creates no results. If we aren’t exercising for results, or to reach a goal then what is the point?
The change doesn’t need to be drastic. I can’t picture a hardcore powerlifter going and taking a Zumba class just to switch up their routine. Here are five examples to help you get out of the comfort zone:
- Add weights. If you have not been incorporating weight training in your routine you are missing out on a lot of benefits.
- Low impact exercise. Maybe you need to take a break from the weights and let your body relax more through mobility exercises or yoga.
- Free weights. Machines simply cannot do what free weights can for your body. They work multiple muscle groups at once through a full range of motion.
- Set goals. Set a goal of running a half marathon, a triathlon or even training for a powerlifting competition.
- Train like an athlete. There is a reason why athletes are at a high level of fitness. They do full body movements that include sprinting, jumping and incorporating mobility for injury prevention.
In 2018 switch up your routine. Instead of living life on repeat its time to hit shuffle, your body and mind will thank you.
