Even the most dedicated sports enthusiasts occasionally get bored with their routine. Lack of motivation, reducing the length of your workout and making excuses to skip the gym on your way home are all signs of a stale exercise program

So how do you break your routine? How do you break the boredom?

Small Step

First, evaluate your current program to identify what is boring you. A simple change to your program may be enough to reinvigorate you. If you have always worked out indoors then move your workout outside for a change of scenery.Run or bike on trails, swim in a pool or the ocean.

Big Step

Take up an entirely new activity. Try something that you never thought you would do. Sign up for a team sport such as netball, basketball or touch rugby. Challenge yourself with a form of exercise that you have been in fear of.

Buddy Up

Working out alone can foster a lack of motivation and perhaps reduce the element of fun in exercising. Buddies can add a social element to any boring routine. Ask a friend to buddy up with you. A friend waiting will stop you from skipping a workout. Join organised fun runs and workouts, as well as group rides hosted by cycling clubs and gymnasiums.

Set yourself Challenges

Give your daily workouts more meaning by setting goals such as completing a 10k run, or completing a small triathlon. Working out to simply stay in shape is fine, but after a period of time, you risk your workout becoming stale. Incorporate speed into your workout. Alternate a fast pace with a slower one for recovery. Sprint to the next tree or run intervals on a track.

Mix it up

Alternate your workouts during the week. Include elements of cardiovascular exercise, weight training and flexibility.

Inspector gadget Small exercise gadgets are not necessary, however they can add some fun to your program and make it more challenging. Heart rate monitors, aquatic toys and safety equipment are just a few.

Take time off

Everyone needs a break once in a while.

Once you have fought the first battle with boredom, you will know the tricks to keep exercise from becoming too routine. Trying new sports, new classes and adding some variety can help you to overcome the urge to come up with the creative excuses for not working out.