Although we tend to be creatures of habit and comfort, frequently changing your workout program is necessary to avoid and/or overcome a plateau, make performance gains, and accomplish new levels of fitness.
When to Change Your Fitness Routine
Self reflection is needed to know when to change a workout routine or schedule. You need self awareness about how you feel before, during, and after exercise. Assess whether or not your current routine is achieving your goals and if not, revise, refresh, and relaunch your program. It’s time to switch your routine up, if you…
- No longer feel a sense of joy for the activity or routine
- Stop making progress or seeing results
- Find yourself watching the clock instead of your form
- Don’t feel energized after completing a workout
How to Change Your Fitness Routine
If you’re struggling with what to change from your current routine, you should evaluate the components individually as well as how they fit together in the program. Here are four key questions to ask yourself:
- Does my current workout routine match my fitness goals?
- Does this routine or specific exercise still bring me joy?
- Do I look forward to my next workout?
- Do I feel physically challenged?
Once you’ve figured out if you need to revamp your routine, you can use the following ideas:
1. Schedule a FREE Goal Setting/F.I.T. Appointment
Meet with a JOHO trainer to discuss your fitness goals and have them create a personalized FIT card for you.
2. Take it Outside
Sometimes all you need is a change of venue. Find a path or trail to take your runs or bike on, try outdoor yoga or HIIT circuit in the park!
3. Get Up Early
Spring means lighter days in the morning, so take advantage of it and greet the day with a good sweat.
4. Try a New Mode
It’s easy and comfortable to keep doing the same thing over and over, but if you want to move your fitness threshold further, then try a new type of activity. If you like using weights, try incorporating other strength tools, such as Kettlebells or resistance bands. If your body isn’t being challenged, then you won’t get the results you’re hoping for.
5. Buddy Up
If you’re quarantining with family or roommates, now is the perfect time to motivate each other to stay active. A nudge from someone close to you can keep you accountable and make all the difference.
Whatever change you choose to integrate into your fitness plan, make sure it makes you happy. If an activity feels like torture, your commitment to staying active will eventually fade. If you try something and decide it’s not for you, move on to something else. Living actively doesn’t look the same for everyone, so it’s crucial that what you do brings you joy.
-Paulina Le, Health Fitness Specialist