Exercise: Never Be Bored Again :

It's 6 a.m. and you want to exercise, but your face feels like it's permanently planted to the pillow. A little motivation helps battle boredom and will get you out of bed, even when the sheep beckon you to stay.

Even the most dedicated exercisers occasionally get bored with their routine. Waning motivation, cutting workouts short and not having your old enthusiasm are all signs of a stale exercise regimen.

So take a close look at your program and determine what's causing the exercise ennui. Working out alone can be an oasis of solitude on a busy day, but maybe you need some company. Exercise companions add a social element to any routine. Ask a friend to be your workout partner. You won't skip a workout if someone is waiting on you. Plus, you might just give it that extra push when someone you know is watching.Just about every sport or activity has a club, too. To find one, ask around at gyms or local community centers. Keeping up with the crowd also means you’ll be challenged to improve your skills. Ask about organized workouts and races offered by local track clubs, as well as group rides hosted by cycling clubs.

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Many exercisers workout simply to stay in shape , but setting a goal -- such as finishing a 10K race or completing a rough-water swim -- will give your daily workouts more meaning.

Try some of the new "toys." Small exercise gadgets aren't necessary, but they can make your workouts more fun and challenging. Heart-rate monitors, pedometers and safety equipment are just a few items to consider. Find out which new training gadgets are available for your favorite activity.

And sometimes you do need time off. In that case, cut back on your usual routine and substitute other activities. You might even find one you enjoy more than your old favorites! You can substitute your formal routine with yard work, cleaning out the garage or helping a friend move. All of these add up to calories burned and help your routine grow even stronger.

Remember that even the most dedicated exercisers have slumps in motivation. It’s been said that the average endurance athlete starts and stops a fitness program 13 times before getting hooked.

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