How to Flip the Switch When Fitness Becomes a Drag

By Sandy Schroeder

Have you ever noticed how the kids playing in the park are always giggling? Everything they do makes them laugh. When did we lose that spirit of fun?

Kayla Reynolds, MS, on noom.com asked this question and came up with answers we could all use. When you are going to scream if you wind up on a treadmill one more time, it’s time to flip the switch. When you find new exercises, get your doctor’s approval and get started.

Work out with someone - Walking for 30 minutes may fly by if you are trading notes with a friend. Find a coworker, friend or family member to work out with and enjoy it more.

Take it outside - Head to the park or take your morning run to your favorite spot by the water. Adding all of the pleasures of fresh air, sunlight and greenery may make your morning routine a lot more appealing.

Involve your kids - Hiking on the weekends with your kids or biking to the park for a picnic gets everybody moving and practically guarantees a great day.

Check recreational sports - If you love to play volleyball, shoot hoops, or play soccer, look for local teams or pickup games on local courts or fields.

Try new stuff - If you have always wanted to try rock climbing or trampolines, this may be the time to find a gym or community center to get started.

Rediscover dancing - Look for dance classes that are all about the fun -- or join your friends on the dance floor. Afterward, you may be exhausted but hooked.

Target local races - Community walks or runs may pull you back into regular exercising with lots of weekend fun.

Try barre classes - Barre exercises are workouts that stem from ballet. They improve posture, tone the whole body, and increase flexibility. They may include push-ups, planks and lower body exercises. Look for a routine online and try them out at home.

Dive right in - Water aerobics may work for the whole family. Low impact, high energy exercises in the water burn calories, strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.

Try tai chi - Observe a class in the park to see how this graceful, low-impact practice works. Standing, swaying and slowly pivoting from one foot to the other improves balance, increases flexibility, and often lifts moods. Look closer. You may find everyone is smiling and nodding. This is one class they won’t miss. They will be back

Finding the perfect choices that bring you back week after week is definitely worth the search. If you are smiling you know you have found it.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Madison, Wis.