When you’re trying to lose weight, you know that burning calories through exercise is essential to your plan. But most of us face two primary challenges with exercise: We’re too busy, and we just don’t like it.

The solution to the first problem is to choose workouts that are intense enough to boost your metabolism significantly. That way you burn more calories in less time. The solution to the second problem is to vary your workout schedule, so that you don’t become bored with doing the same thing over and over. Try the following seven workouts to add a bit of variety to your routine.

Interval Training. Interval training is designed to spike your heart rate repeatedly, which keeps your metabolism revved up to burn more calories. You can use interval training combined with any other form of exercise, like jogging or cycling.

Boot Camp. Boot Camp training classes combine interval and resistance training, often in an outdoor setting. These classes are often held early in the morning, and they’re intense, but your metabolism will stay fired up for the rest of the day. Some people choose to do Boot Camp on the weekend, while filling in with shorter workouts during the week.

CrossFit. CrossFit combines short, intense movements so that you can train all muscle groups in one workout. It’s popular because it works! But be careful not to push yourself to the point of injury, because CrossFit can be intense.

Tabata. This is the workout for those of you who run short on spare time. Tabata combines four minutes of high-intensity interval training with 20 seconds of all-out effort, then ten seconds of rest. Repeat that eight times and your workout is finished for the day.

Swimming. One hour of swimming can burn up to 750 calories, and works all major muscle groups. Of course, the down side is that you need a pool, or time to head to the beach. Working a swim into your fitness regimen a few times a month can keep you from getting bored, though.

Jumping Rope. This is a great workout that you can do just about anywhere, as long as you have a jump rope and a few feet of space. Stash a jump rope in your car or office, and you can fit in a quick ten-minute workout any time.

Walking/Jogging. Other than a pair of sturdy shoes, you don’t need any special equipment to walk or jog. Keep a spare pair of running shoes with you at all times, so you can go for a quick walk or run on lunch breaks, while running errands, or during the kids’ soccer practice.

As always, remember to consult with us before starting a new workout regimen. We can discuss your weight loss plans and help you decide which types of exercise are safe for you.