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Easy ways to make exercise more enjoyable this January

Fitness is an area many people are keen to focus on when January rolls around – particularly after an indulgent festive period.

Whether it’s establishing a regular gym routine, training for a half-marathon, or simply moving more now many of us are back working from home, these goals and resolutions vary from person to person.

But one thing we can all agree on is that January fitness resolutions can sometimes feel like a chore – particularly after a nice and refreshing Christmas break.

Studies have shown that workouts we enjoy can be much more effective and sustainable. So, how can we go about putting the fun back into fitness? 

Experts have shared a few simple ways we can make exercise more enjoyable and something we look forward to – rather than dread.

Here are some key things to try, to help mix up monotonous routines…

Get social 

Turning fitness into a social activity is a great way of mixing things up -especially if you typically opt for solo workouts. 

‘We need to feel like we fit and belong in order to have that intrinsic motivation to exercise,’ sports psychologist and author Dr Josephine Perry tells Metro.co.uk.

‘Think about the activity you love the most and find that tribe. Look online, at the gym, check out forums, local groups or social media or find others who you can share your joy, knowledge and excitement with.’

Add some competition for yourself

If you’re a competitive person, why not try setting yourself a challenge for each session?

‘Our brain loves to feel achievements – so give each session a goal. When you achieve it you get a real buzz which helps you come back for more in the future,’ adds Dr Josephine Perry.

Mix up your metrics

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that every exercise session has to revolve around beating personal bests or keeping certain times.

‘Instead of worrying about time or speed or reps, if we design the metrics we measure by – in-line with what really matters to us  – we will enjoy the process so much more,’ says Dr Josephine Perry.

‘Great session goals could be about spotting something beautiful if you are exercising outside, helping someone else if you are in the gym (and thus building a friendship) or mastering a tricky technique if you are working out at home.’

Do what you enjoy

Going to the gym isn’t for everyone.

In fact, there are so many activities out there – it’s important to find something you actually enjoy, whether it’s skipping, rock climbing, swimming or something else.

Tirrel Grant, a personal trainer and founder of Square Mile Fitness, says: ‘If you’re finding that a type of exercise you’re trying is not interesting or fun to you, you’re less likely to keep it up.

‘Whether you’re exercising at home, at a gym, or somewhere else, it is proven that having fun means you’re more likely to keep the activity up, rather than getting bored with it and stopping.’

This might involve trying something new entirely.

‘Think outside of the box and try something that will get you to step outside of your comfort zone and possibly meet new people with your new hobby,’ says fitness personality and author Carly Rowena.

‘This could be rollerskating or long-boarding, bouldering, dance classes, trampoline fitness, CrossFit or gymnastics.’

Find a teacher you love

While solo home workouts have grown in popularity since the pandemic, online classes (and real life ones) could make things more fun.

Yoga expert Elodie Gythiel stresses that a great teacher can go a long way when it comes to enjoyment.

‘They’ll help you find the energy and the motivation to practise,’ she tells Metro.co.uk.

‘And pick a teacher you like – as time flies when you enjoy your instructor.’

Buddy up

‘Join a class or practise with a friend or a colleague, so you can share the experience and progress,’ adds Elodie.

Not only will you motivate each other to workout in the first place, but you’ll probably have more fun doing it together, too.

Pick the right time of day

‘Pick a time that fits your energy levels,’ adds Elodie. ‘I dread an evening yoga class, so I book morning classes to get it over with.’

Alternatively, if you love a lie in, booking an early morning class might not be the right choice for you and an evening session could be the way to go.

Embrace your inner child

A daily dose of nostalgia is good for the soul – and this can be applied to fitness as well.

Becky Barrett, founder of personal training service BBM Fitness, says: ‘Think about what you enjoyed doing that you didn’t even have to think about – such as skipping, rollerskating or hula-hooping. All are great for a full body work-out.’

Dress up for the occasion

Becky adds that a good way to make yourself feel incredible is to treat yourself to an amazing workout outfit.

She says: ‘Feeling at your best when you walk into a room – or wherever you choose to train – will give you a boost.

‘Pick your favourite colour combinations – plus be sure to wear the right footwear to put your best foot forward.’

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