Workout? Eh, boring….

Many of us don’t exercise or work out because it just isn’t fun. Workouts often seem like a routine or chore. Do I want to spend an hour sweating, straining, running, jumping, and tiring myself out, or do I choose comfort and watching TV?   But what if exercise can be fun and enjoyable? What if your workout routine wasn’t a chore but something you genuinely looked forward to? By incorporating some playful elements into your routine, you can motivate yourself by making your workout fun. 

Enjoy some entertainment

During a run on the treadmill, walk in the park, ride on the home exercise bike, or just about any form of cardio exercise, listen to your favorite music. A fun, fast, energetic music playlist can motivate you to push yourself through a tough set or finish a long-distance run. You can also put your mind at ease by enjoying a podcast or audiobook to enjoy your workout. Use your smartphone to watch a TV show or stream a movie.  Finding the most enjoyable entertainment can help you look forward to your workout

Invite a friend

A workout partner or even an exercise group can give you the motivation to get you through a lift or a run. You can count on a friend to push you through your workout. Chatting, laughing, and a little friendly competition can make the time fly by and give you the energy to complete your sets. You can also join a group fitness class—spinning, yoga, or kickboxing. The camaraderie and shared energy can make workouts more enjoyable. Plus, you might make new workout buddies!

Change it up

Doing the same workout routines over and over can lead to boredom and goal plateaus. Get creative with your workout by trying new exercises like yoga, HIIT, calisthenics, running, etc. Explore different exercise videos on your computer or streaming service.. Alternate between strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises. A circuit workout lets you swap different strength and cardio machines, keeping things interesting.

Dance like nobody’s looking

Time to let loose and dance the night away! Put on your favorite music, jam out in your living room, or take a live or online Zumba or hip-hop class. Dancing and moving to a rhythm and expressing yourself through movement is a great way to break a sweat and have fun simultaneously. Dancing not only elevates your heart rate, it’s fun and an excellent stress-buster.

Explore the great outdoors

Now that the weather is better, why not use nature’s call to get your workout in? A vigorous trail hike, kayaking, bike ride, or leisurely walk through a park can help keep you moving and allow you to see some amazing sights. Plus, sunshine and fresh air are natural mood-lifters.

Be a kid, again

Embrace your inner child by running to your local store and picking up some chalk, a jump rope, and a hula hoop. Make a hopscotch course in whatever shape or length you want and get hopping. Rebuild your jump rope skills and work your hips to elevate your new hula hoop. Better yet, organize a team at work to hold weekly childhood games like softball, kickball, badminton, pickleball, and even tag.  They can be surprisingly effective ways to burn serious calories and rediscover the joy of playful movement.

Try a fitness app

Fitness apps help users track their progress and monitor their fitness goals. They can track workouts, meals, and other health data, such as weight, blood pressure, and heart rate. Go online or to your app’s store and type in fun fitness app. Check the reviews and give a few a try. Even a smartwatch will let you know if you have been sitting too long and encourage you to keep moving. 

Dress your best

Believe it or not, what you wear during your exercises can also lead to having a fun workout. If you feel good in your workout clothes and you are wearing the proper gear for the workout you choose, your exercise routines feel less overwhelming, and you feel more confident. Also, choose fun, colorful, or trendy designs that excite you about your next workout routine. 

Go have fun

Incorporating these playful elements allows you to transform exercise from a chore into an enjoyable activity. You will be motivated to keep exercising and enjoy a healthy lifestyle by making your workout fun. So, wear your favorite workout outfit, crank up the tunes, channel your inner child, and get ready to have fun!