It is important to develop a routine to follow for any successful fitness goal. A routine adds structure and direction to an exercise plan.
However, a routine may also become counterproductive, if it's not updated periodically. A routine can keep us from progressing by not offering our body enough challenge for positive change. Someone once said "If you keep doing what you've always done, you'll keep getting what you've always got."
We need to make sure that we are not just “going through the motions” to appease our conscience and just doing enough to avoid feeling guilty. The body only makes change when it is challenged to do so.
If you are using weights, consider adding more weight or reps. Or, switch from free weights to machines. If you generally do cardio on the treadmill, give the stair stepper or elliptical machine a try. Variations can also be made to existing exercises such as doing curls on an incline bench rather than doing them upright, or by adding incline to your treadmill routine.
Don't let your routine become so routine that you don't get anywhere. Consult with a fitness professional for advice on developing a progressive routine that fits you. [© 2004 W.I.N., Inc. worldimagenaturals.com]
