For yet another day, you lace up your running shoes and head out the door, dreading what you’re about to do. It’s time for your daily workout, and you’d rather be doing anything else. You force yourself through your routine once again, grimacing all the way. You really, really hate this. And you’re tempted to quit altogether. 

Sound familiar? Your situation might not be this extreme, but chances are good that you dread your workout sometimes. Anyone can have an “off day”, when they just don’t feel like working out. But if those days are coming around more often than not, it’s probably time to do something about it. After all, a big part of your weight loss and fitness journey is a desire to feel happier with yourself overall. Dreading something you force yourself to do every single day sure doesn’t sound like happiness!

Part of the problem is that we tend to think that we must do certain types of exercise. So you might get locked into thinking that you need to run a couple of miles each morning, because that’s how your best friend lost her baby weight. Or, you think you have to bench press a certain amount because your neighbor got in great shape by hitting the weight room every day. But what do exercise scientists have to say?

Yes, it is a well-established truth that a diversified exercise routine will usually bring about better results. You should choose different activities that target cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, strength, flexibility, and body composition. Research has demonstrated that including a variety of activities in your workout routine yields better results in weight loss and muscular endurance.

However, there is no one “right” way to incorporate all of these activities into your schedule. If you dislike running, you can walk briskly, swim, in-line skate, bike, or use an elliptical machine at the gym. These are just a few of your options to target cardiovascular endurance.

If you don’t enjoy the weight room, try other methods of targeting muscular strength. Simple body weight exercises, like push-ups and squats, are quite effective. You could also try a fun class, such as boot camp or Crossfit. Even some yoga classes incorporate strength-training moves (and on that note, you’d be targeting flexibility at the same time).

 The best exercise routine is one that you enjoy, and that doesn’t bore you. So if you feel stuck in a rut, don’t be afraid to change things up.

For more help with medical weight loss and fitness advice, call us to schedule an appointment. We can help you tailor an eating plan and workout schedule to meet your goals.