Humans are creatures of habits, so there’s no surprise that when it comes to exercise, we like to do what we are used to doing. Whether it’s leg day on Monday, and chest day on Tuesday… or the same exercises every time you do legs… or a 30-minute elliptical workout on the same incline and resistance… we don’t like to change what we know. Sure you’re better off exercising than not exercising, but it’s crucial to vary your workouts in order to get the best results. Whether it’s losing weight, gaining muscle, or simply maintaining, variety is the spice of life!

There are countless ways to change up your workout routine, and even the smallest changes can make the biggest difference. If you’re someone who likes to run for example, instead of running on the treadmill every day, why not try it outdoors? Not only will you enjoy a change of scenery, but it feels different on your body, and uses some different muscles – thus enhancing your overall fitness level. Here are six different suggestions and benefits of changing up your fitness routine (or in some cases, just getting started).

1.        Breaking Through a Plateau

Problem: When you do the same activity/routine all the time, your body gets used to it and adapts (burning less calories/fat).

Solution: By changing it up, you’re shocking your system. It can be a simple change like running outdoors, increasing the weight/reps/time, changing the tempo or even which day you train on. When you change it up, your body doesn’t know what to do and has to learn this new routine. During this time, your body has to work harder to try to adapt and this is where you get your biggest bang for your buck.

2.        Preventing Overuse/Injuries

Problem: Repetitive strain injuries are common in people who perform the same exercises/motions, thus working the exact same muscles. Examples include: the same swimming stroke, kicking motion in martial arts, running, hitting a tennis ball, etc. 

Solution: By changing it up, you’re giving certain muscles, joints, and ligaments a break, by instead using other ones instead. If you happen to get hurt during a certain activity, by switching up the activity, you’re allowing that body part to heal while still being active and staying in shape. 

3.        Developing New Muscles

Problem: Each sport/exercise builds certain muscles more than others. For example, swimmers have powerful arms and shoulders, runners have insane legs, and biceps curls strengthen your biceps. 

Solution: By changing up your activity, you get to develop new muscles, creating an all around physically fit person. You’ll look great and be prepared for any type of activity. Win-win over here!

4.        Preventing Boredom

Problem: If you find yourself checking the clock throughout your workout, or no longer enjoying the scenery during your daily run, then it’s time to change it up! Better yet, change it up before this happens.

Solution: If you’re used to doing a steady pace jog, why not try 30 second run intervals followed by a 30 second walk? If you take the same route every time you run, try a new one. If you’ve never tried an exercise class, maybe now is your time? If you’re eyeing a certain machine in the gym that you haven’t had the guts to ask about, give it a try.

5.        Exercising Your Brain

Problem: Exercise is essential for keeping your brain sharp and aiding in the prevention of memory loss. Learning new skills (including new forms of exercise) adds to this. 

Solution: If you want a challenge, pick an activity that involves skill and memorization, such as dancing. Choose an activity that keeps you engaged rather than running on autopilot will not only make your body work hard, but your mind too. 

6.        Meeting New Exercise Workout

Problem: One of the best ways to stay engaged and motivated with exercise is by finding either a group of people or at least one buddy that shares common goals/interests as you. Not only does it give you a companion to share the experience with, but it keeps you accountable knowing you have to show up each day not only for yourself but for that other person as well. It can also instill some healthy competition. 

Solution: This can be as simple as attending exercise classes where you will get the know the other participants. You can also join a running or cycling club where they run/cycle outdoors in a group. If that doesn’t work, simply asking a friend to join you on a new activity might be helpful.

Whichever method(s) you chose will benefit you. Remember, you get places in life by always trying to improve yourself, exercise is no different. If you’re used to not exercising, even just starting with a daily walk is a wonderful change and will shock your system. Make whatever changes you can and you will see a difference!