No matter what the fitness level of an individual, we can all get stuck in a rut from time to time.  There are lots of different things that can slow us down, but fortunately there are also lots of ways to spark your workouts again.

Variety is the spice of life and is a great way to improve your fitness outlook.  People should try to change up the way they exercise now and then to avoid plateaus, boredom and just to give muscles a break from being used the same way over and over.

Here’s a six-pack of tips to snap out of a fitness rut:

Keep a workout log – This is a workout must.  If you log your workouts it will allow you to follow a plan, chart your progress and be able to look back over the workouts and feel good about yourself.  It can help you adjust better as you go along – determine what’s working and what isn’t – and also serve as motivation.

Seek variety – Seek ways to cross train and vary the number of reps you do and how you do them to change things up.  Mixing different types of interval training is a great way to keep your cardio workouts more enjoyable and challenging.

When it comes to running and/or walking, change the course you exercise on.  A change of scenery could help re-energize you.

If you train mostly on a treadmill, you can still change things up.  Switch the pre-programmed workout you do, or change surroundings by doing things such as playing different music or what you watch on TV if one is near your machine.

Set goals – It’s important to set a long-term goal, such as run a 5K race or lose 15 pounds.  People should also set short-term goals, such as simply to make sure they work out three times in the coming week or that they do 20-30 minutes of cardio at least twice a week.

Find a training partner – A reliable family member or friend to work out with can help make it a lot more fun and also help keep you more motivated and accountable.

Schedule time for fitness – We’re careful to schedule and keep appointments with the doctor or auto mechanic.  Shouldn’t finding time to exercise also be something important enough to block off time on our weekly calendar for?

Buy something new – If you’re stuck in a rut, perhaps buying a new piece of fitness equipment for your home gym or new workout clothes will help motivate you.  Reward yourself for working to stay fit!  Knowing you have the new item should make you want to use it for exercise.

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