5 Tips to Shake Up Your Routine

You already know the benefits of exercise - from improving mood, energy levels and sleep quality to reducing anxiety, stress, and depression. However, no amount of willpower is going to keep you going long-term—day in and day out—with a workout you hate. Here are five tips to shake things up and see your fitness plan in a new light.

#1 Find your niche

Struggled to find your forte in CrossFit, or didn’t see what the fuss was about with spin? There’s an exercise out there for everyone, so if you’re lacking motivation, perhaps you haven’t found the workout that makes you tick. Pick activities that fit your lifestyle, abilities, and taste. With fitness trends like barre, hip hop yoga, and boxing on the rise in London gyms, get back out there and try a different class or sport to find one that makes you tune out and gives you a release from your daily grind. Or leaves you in a daze of endorphins. You'll know you found it when you look at the clock and an hour flashes by without you noticing.

#2 Hire a trainer

Whether you're a total newcomer to the fitness scene or you just need a little motivation and guidance, a personal trainer can help you set goals and develop a plan to make them happen. Even on or two sessions can be beneficial, so don’t rule out a trainer entirely. Think of it like the best fitness pal ever - one who’ll motivate you to the max and push you to work hard. Our Chelsea gym has a selection of experienced and friendly trainers who can help you with your fitness journey.

#3 Make it convenient

Think about when, where, and how your workout can easily fit into your daily routine. If your gym is close to your home or your work place, you’re more likely to keep up the sessions by fitting it into your schedule. That's just one of many reasons why ONELDN's gym in Fulham so ideal - our convenient location. Take note of when you find it easiest to exercise, whether it’s fitting in a workout first thing to fire up your brain and kick start your metabolism, or perhaps in the afternoon when your muscles are sufficiently warm and alert. Plan ahead to make sure you can get everything you need—like clothes and shower supplies—to and from your workouts.

#4 Don't overdo it

While the mantra of “no pain, no gain,” is a motivator for some, it can be dangerous when taken to the extreme. Trying to do much, too soon can leave you sore and exhausted - or worse yet, with a real injury that will keep you sidelined for longer. Stick to a varied training plan and track your stats to ensure you’re progressing at a reasonable pace. Refuel after each workout and take regular rest days to allow your muscles to rebuild.

#5 Get techy (and social)

Perhaps the feel-good side effects of working out are enough to keep you going. However if you need a little push in the right direction, you may find that using an app or wearable fitness tracker can help you stay on track. Whether you’re counting steps or calories, fitness technology can show your progress through statistics and can challenge yourself to new personal bests. Many programs can connect up to social media sites, allowing you to find encouragement from friends or find an online fitness community to cheer you on.

Author: Connie Foster-Hall