How to Avoid Boredom at the Gym

For many people, it's not exhaustion but boredom that leads them home from the gym earlier than anticipated. Follow these simple steps to stop watching the clock and get an exciting workout instead.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

How to Avoid Boredom at the Gym

1. Change machines every 10 minutes. As long as you can keep up the same amount of intensity, you will continue to burn calories whether you move to a treadmill, an elliptical, a rowing machine or a bicycle.

2. Hit the weights. Whether you learn how to use free weights or simply rely on machines, weight training will build muscle to help you burn more calories in the future. Most people stick to three sets of 10 to 15 repetitions, and moving from one exercise to another will keep things interesting.

3. Trade workout routines with a friend. The swap will give you something new to focus on, and new approach to burning calories may help your body may break past a plateau.

4. Read a book. While focusing on something other than the exercise may lead to burning less calories, if looking forward to your gym-only novel will get you moving when you'd rather not, read away!

5. Make a friend. You're probably not the only person at the gym trying to stave off boredom.

6. Try something new. Afraid you aren't coordinated enough for a step class? Think water aerobics is only for senior citizens? Think of it as an adventure, and think again!

7. Invest in an mp3 player. Digital music stores like iTunes offer thousands of songs and digital workout instructions, so find the audio that inspires you and get moving.