As a fitness enthusiast, I crave challenges and variety to stay inspired. But as committed as I am to living fit and healthy, there are times when I feel my momentum and enthusiasm start to wane. It happens to the best of us from time to time. These “exercise humps” are usually a sign that it’s time examine what’s going on in your life, reconnect with what motivates you to live this way, and make changes to your current fitness routine to push you through.

Here are a few ways I get re-inspired to get over an exercising hump:

Remind myself why it’s important.

It’s not easy to live fit and healthy. It’s a choice you have to make each and every day. When I find myself looking for excuses to skip a workout, I go over my personal reasons for living this way.  My reasons are varied but include looking and feeling great and preventing immobility as I age.

Add spice to my current workout routine.

Most of my workouts are created by my trainers or instructors, but there are ways I can add in my own touch. It’s what I call making them ‘spicy’.  For example, during a boxing session, I may add in an extra move to one of the runs, or focus on speed vs intensity during a round.

Try something new.

Some exercise humps happen because you are bored.  However, if you’re open to trying new things and aren’t afraid to be a beginner at something new, there are an infinite number of fitness methods to cure boredom. Zumba, Pilates, Yoga, Hiking, CrossFit, Boxing, Cycling, Trampoline…the list goes on and on.  Pick one or more to try on the regular to keep you engaged and energized.

Ask for help.

Getting frustrated with the lack of results? There are a lot of experienced and friendly experts out there, online and in person, that can help. Some offer free articles and advice online, while others may make themselves available in person.  For me, the best advice and inspiration usually comes from my own network.  However, no one else knows when slumps start to develop, so you have to be proactive and make seeking out advice, advice and inspiration a habit.

Everyone hits a wall during their fitness journey. Even the most dedicated athlete has to shake things up once in a while. So, the next time you find yourself hitting a fitness slump in your own routine, recognize it as a sign that something needs to change and change it.