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Exercising even when you aren't in the mood

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Don’t feel like working out today? Or maybe you can’t wait to break a sweat? Some days we’re simply more in the mood to exercise than others.

That’s why I recommend factoring in how you’re feeling when you decide what exercises you’ll do, and how hard you’ll do them, on any particular day. This doesn’t necessarily give you a free pass to skip physical activity altogether though. Rather, it means you should consider making adjustments to your workout -- the intensity and types of exercise -- based on your mood and health at the moment.

We all have days when we feel unmotivated or tired. But instead of hitting the couch when you can’t seem to get moving, change up your workout plans instead.

One solution is to lower the intensity of your workout. You don't always have to go for the burn to get a benefit.

Another approach is to boost your motivation by trying something new, such as a different exercise class or sport. You could also change your environment -- if you normally exercise inside, for instance, head outdoors for some fresh air and a change of scenery.

Of course, music can help pump you up so try playing your favorite tunes. And calling a friend to work out may not only motivate you to get moving but the social aspect will likely lift your spirits as well.

As for those days when you’re feeling great and are raring to go, try kicking things up a notch.

You could increase the intensity of your cardio by adding intervals, taking a higher-level exercise class, hitting the hills or picking up the pace during your jog or bike ride.

During strength training, you could add more weight to your lifts or take shorter rests between sets so that you keep your heart rate up.

By taking mood into consideration when structuring workouts, I have found that even when I'm not “in the mood to exercise, ” I feel so much better when I modify their workouts rather than skipping them entirely. And by challenging myself more when I'm really up for it, I feel like I can take on the world when I'm finished.

It can work for you, too. Just listen to your body.

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Creator: runningbear
Category: Endurance
Posted: 4/27/2008

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	“ And I've found that even when I think I don't have the energy to workout, I always feel better after I do. ”
	- runningbear on 5/3/2008 in response to Carina

	“ On days when I'm not in the mood or just don't have the energy, I'll do pilates or yoga. It may not be the 60-minute spinning class I love so much but it's still something. ”
	- Carina on 5/3/2008

	“ I at least try and do a workout with light weights or an abbreviated run. ”
	- runningbear on 5/2/2008 in response to OldeButGoode

	“ On the days I don't feel energetic I do light weights, low intensity, shoot a few baskets or perhaps a long medium speed walk. ”
	- OldeButGoode on 5/2/2008

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