You know what? I’m proud of myself.
I’ve been working out regularly since January. Not every day. Not even always 3-4 times a week. But there has not been a single week in the past four months that I haven’t made it to the gym at least once in a week, even when I’ve been traveling or really busy. And overall, I’ve averaged about 2-3 workouts per week.
I’m not burning up the gym. I’m not shredding down or bulking up. I’m not showing up for Zumba classes 5 days a week. But I’m showing up. And considering that exercise is something I’ve had a very hard time sticking to in the past, that simple, “good-enough” consistency feels like something to celebrate.
There’s just one problem: I’m getting bored. I’ve been doing the same basic workout for months, and now that the weather is getting nice, it’s pretty much torturous to lock myself away in the gym in front of a wall of TV’s several times a week. I also wouldn’t mind saving money by dropping the Y membership over the next 4 months or so, as I doubt any of us are going to want to use it much.
But I’m nervous about trying to switch up my routine too much. For some reason, it feels like more work to lace up my shoes and run out my front door than it does to pack a bag and drive five miles to the YMCA. Probably because the YMCA trip is now a firmly-entrenched habit, whereas running in my neighborhood is still a novelty.
So this week, my Mindful Monday intention is to start the process of tricking my brain into getting used to outdoor workouts. It’s going to require structure and discipline and re-working my daily and weekly routines. It’s also going to require me digging my bike helmet out of goodness-knows-where in the garage. But I think I’m ready to get started – before the weather gets any hotter!
Could your workout routine use a makeover? Or do you have another Mindful Monday intention this week?
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I am training for triathlon and it’s so great to be outside biking and running now. The other thing we did was to join a Master’s Swim League. It’s held outside at a local pool and it’s beautiful to be swimming outside. The nice thing about it is that it is scheduled into my week. Just something to consider: joining a group makes working out way easier. The accountability is built in.
Great Job on staying with it with realistic expectations!
I’ve had a rough last 3 weeks (only two workouts!) and am going to have to do a little change up myself. Work has been insane and I’m not able to escape to do my work outs at lunch like I used to. Fortunately, this is the last week of school for my two older ones which = FREEDOM! Freedom from crazy busy evenings having dinner by 6, fixing lunches, and early bedtimes. Starting next week I’ll be able to go work out in the evening (they love the childcare center and we can go to the pool together after). It’s harder though – after work I’m tired and less motivated, but I need to try. Another option I was thinking about doing today is joining the small activity center onsite here at work. I prefer the local gym but this could do in a pinch on days I don’t have as much time. Best part is it’s free to employees.
I had big plans for this year-I was going to sign up for a triathlon. And there’s still time. But I just don’t have the feeling that it’s going to happen.
However, I do think I’m going to start running. It sounds like something I should already be doing, what with the triathlons, but I always walk the run portions. Lately I’ve felt like I need to step up my workouts. And while carrying a 26-pound toddler for the better part of a half mile is definitely work, I think it’s done everything it can for me.
I’ve just barely been able to convince myself to exercise at home in the evenings using a workout video. So far I’ve done it… once! My goal is to do this once a week and I’ve even scheduled in the day to do so (Tuesdays). I agree that outdoor exercise is so much more fun. We have a park that even has a running trail as well as exercise equipment to use.
Am I the only the one who exercises ONLY when it’s nice outside?
Fitness principles not only apply to adults, but to children as well. The obesity rates among children have risen dramatically over the years..
Great tips!
I agree that outdoor exercise is so much more fun….anyway,thanks a million for sharing this with us.
For sure you can be able to achieve your goals on your work out plan and seems you are very dedicated on it. Good luck and wish you can do it. Since you love outdoor adventure activities, you really did a great job because outdoor activities can really boost your spirit, mind and personality.