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When you do physical exercise, you do it for the physical and mental health benefits. But who says it has to feel like a chore? Working out can and should be an enjoyable experience and shouldn’t feel like a burden. When you’re having fun, you’re more likely to stay with your fitness regimen, leading to you getting the results you want.
This guide will show you five clever ways to make your next workout more fun.
1. Watch A Show
Whether at home or the gym, putting on some entertainment while exercising can make your workouts fun. If you’re running on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike, try putting on one of your favorite TV shows to watch while you’re exercising. Watching a show can provide a good distraction and lighten the mood. When you’re laughing, you’re thinking less about the strain on your muscles.
Some people start a new show but only watch it while on the treadmill (for example) to incentivize them to work out. If they want to see what happens in the next episode, they must wait until their next workout. This strategy is an excellent motivator if you want to entertain yourself while exercising.
2. Grab A Partner
Some people like to work out alone because that’s how they focus best on their workout goals. However, you may find more joy in finding a workout partner, whether a friend, trainer, spouse or anybody you think would make a great companion. A partner may be just what you need to motivate each other to reach your goals and beyond.
If you like exercising with one partner, how would you like a group of partners? Group fitness classes have become popular over the years, and they have multiple benefits. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can be a terrific motivator. These classes will add variety to your workouts, and best of all, they can help with your form. Your coach will help you and your classmates do exercises correctly, preventing injury from improper form.
3. Switch Up The Routine
Exercise routines can be great because you know what you like best and what fits into your schedule. However, doing the same thing every workout can become monotonous and boring for some. Switch up the routine if you feel like you’re in a rut. If you usually do strength training, do some cardio or vice versa.
Changing the routine also allows you to try new fitness activities, such as swimming or high-intensity interval training (HIIT). These workouts are great for the body and can introduce you to something you never thought you’d enjoy. Or, you could do a less physically intense activity like yoga or tai chi. These exercises provide physical exercise, but they do just as much for your mind and help you relax.
4. Wear Better Workout Clothes
What you wear is vital in determining how your workout will go. Putting on comfortable yet functional clothing will help you enjoy the exercise and not feel like a burden. Try looking for workout clothing with compression qualities to help your circulation and prevent injuries. When your blood flows healthily, you’ll have less lactic acid buildup, which makes you feel stiff and fatigued.
When you pick workout clothes, you’ll want to consider the weather if you’re outdoors or the typical climate of an indoor facility. In most cases, wear loose-fitting clothing not made from cotton. You’ll want comfortable clothes that support your flexibility and not work against you. Wearing cotton clothing will create too much moisture and make you uncomfortable. Also, be sure to have a good pair of tennis shoes to support your feet.
5. Eat Well Beforehand
If you lack energy during exercise, try examining what you eat during the day before a workout. Eating before training is essential to ensure you have enough energy to complete your fitness activities. Working out on an empty stomach can make you feel sluggish or lightheaded. Have a snack an hour or two before a workout, so your body has enough fuel to last. Some of the best snacks to eat before a workout include:
- Peanut butter sandwich
- Bananas and other fresh fruit
- Energy bar
- Sports drink
- Granola bar
Making Workouts Fun
Exercise is a fun way to boost your physical and mental health. People work out because it’s fun and gets them moving for a while. Sometimes, making it fun is easier said than done. Try switching up your routine or find ways to entertain yourself during exercise. You could grab a partner or join a fitness class. Use these five ways to make your next workout fun.
About The Author:
Oscar Collins is the managing editor at Modded, where he writes about cars, fitness, the outdoors and more. Check out @TModded for regular updates!
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