Are you stuck in a rut? Specifically, a fitness or workout rut? Maybe you’ve been going on the same walk around the block for the last few months, or you’ve done the same online yoga video one too many times. And maybe, you’ve gotten out of the habit of working out entirely! No matter your situation, today’s the day to break out of the box! It’s always good to switch it up once in a while and try something new.
Trying something new is going to require you to do something you haven’t done. That’s how we change, right? The reason we get bored is because we’re stuck in a routine that isn’t serving us anymore, or we’re afraid to break out of the box (or many times, we don’t know how!). Don’t let your fear, pride, or anything else keep you from moving forward, or in this case … trying something new!
Pro Tip: While this post applies to fitness specifically, we highly encourage you to try something new in every area of your life!
Need some suggestions for your new workout? Take our list of ideas and make one work for you. 💪
Kickboxing
Now, don’t be intimidated. Kickboxing is a total body workout, but it’s fun, stress relieving, and it doesn’t take very long to reap the benefits! These classes (or online videos) combine a cardio workout with a mix of martial art kicks and punches (don’t worry, they walk you through it and you get the hang of it really quick!).
HIIT
HIIT workouts are all the rage right now. High intensity interval training focuses on getting your heartrate up in short bursts of energy and then follows up with short recovery periods.
What’s the benefit of this type of workout? According to dailyburn.com, there are three big benefits:
- Metabolism Boost: HIIT workouts boost your body’s need for oxygen after your workout, known as the afterburn effect. Finish your workout … but still get the effects later on!
- 30 minutes and you’re done! You can do more (or less), but the consensus is that 30 minutes is the sweet spot.
- No equipment? Great! Most HIIT workouts are done with just your body weight! (Think squats, push-ups, burpees, lunges, etc.)
You don’t even need to leave the house for this one. Yes, there are online videos and classes you can sign up for … OR, you can make your own, grab a mat, and set up in your living room! Need help creating your own routine?
Taekwondo
You might think that the martial arts are just your kids’ after school activity, but that mindset means you’re missing out! Taekwondo (and many other martial arts) offers a wealth of benefits including confidence, concentration, focus, flexibility, strength, and so much more! And, there are many classes offered all over for adults and kids alike!
Yin Yoga
There’s an infinite number of different types of yoga, but Yin should be at the top of your list! What is it? This is not hot yoga … but it’s done in a warm and low–lit room (80–85ºF). Yin focuses on flexibility and stretching; it’s a slow-paced class where you generally hold postures for around 5 minutes each. This is a great beginner class if you’re wanting to try yoga but haven’t done it before and don’t know where to start.
Inferno Pilates
This one is not for the faint of heart. But if you’re looking for a challenge, in a hot room … this is a fun class with loud music and an interactive vibe where everyone cheers everyone on and you’re all in it together! What’s it look like? It’s a combination of traditional Pilates and HIIT, to keep your heart rate up, all done in a heated studio (90–100ºF).
Even if you just drop into a new class once or do one new activity at home, it might be enough to get you headed in the right direction and out of that rut, so give it a shot! Looking for classes near you? Try out the MindBody™ app to see what’s located in your area.
As with any new fitness routine, make sure you’re keeping things at the right level for your personal skillset, and check in with your doctor before starting something new! If you aren’t sure what’s right for you, you can always call places that offer classes and ask what class would fit you best.
