We all know how easy it is to fall into a routine that feels... well, routine. Maybe you’re in a workout slump. Maybe you’re sticking to the same moves and not seeing progress. Or maybe you just need a little push to try something different. Whatever the case, National Fitness Day is your invitation to mix it up, explore new ways to move, and rediscover the joy of movement.
Whether you’re wondering how to start an exercise routine or looking to refresh your current routine, a change can boost motivation and help you stay consistent. Remember, finding a routine that works for you is key—after all, fitness isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Why Changing Your Routine Matters
Sticking to the same workout day after day can lead to burnout, boredom, and plateaus. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just getting started on your fitness journey, switching things up can boost motivation, challenge your body in fresh ways, and make movement more fun.
Plus, your body adapts to the same routines over time. If you’re immersed in a running routine, for example, you’re targeting your calves and leg muscles at the expense of developing upper body strength. A fresh routine keeps things exciting and challenges your body in new ways while engaging new muscle groups and areas of your body you might not regularly exercise.
How to Find a New Routine
Here are five ways to shake things up this National Fitness Day:
Try a New Activity
A beginner fitness routine can help you create sustainable habits across different styles of movement. For example, if you’re all in on cardio, do a similar sport that gets your heart pumping. Love running? Give cycling or swimming a shot for a full-body workout. Never tried dance workouts? Time to groove with beginner-friendly swing, hip-hop, salsa, or ballet classes. A functional fitness routine not only keeps things exciting but also makes you a more well-rounded athlete.
Find Your Balance
Building muscle mass is key to building functional strength. Big on weightlifting? Add yoga or Pilates for balance and flexibility. Trying to set a personal record? Cap your workouts with mild running or even a cardio-intensive sport like kickboxing or sparring. A whole-body workout means you can stay limber and use your strength more effectively day-to-day.
Set a Fun, Attainable Goal
A goal can be the perfect motivation to try something new. Challenge yourself to train for a 5K, complete a month of daily movement, or master a new skill—like your first pull-up or a headstand. Keep it fun, keep it fresh, and celebrate the little victories along the way. Learn more tips on setting realistic and fulfilling goals.
Switch Up Your Schedule
You might be bored with your routine because of when you’re working out. If you’re usually an evening exerciser, try a morning session and see how you feel first thing in the morning. Or vice versa: try exercising after work to blow off any stress you might have encountered during the day. Change up your location—swap the treadmill for an outdoor trail or take your yoga mat to the park. Even if you’re sticking with the same routine, these small shifts can make a big difference in how your workout feels.
Find a Workout Buddy or Group
Having a workout buddy can add motivation, accountability, and a whole lot of fun to your routine. Plus, you might discover new workouts you wouldn’t have tried solo, such as bench pressing with a spotter to keep you safe. Group meetups for running, cycling, or rock climbing are great ways to make friends in convivial settings.
Join a Team
Additionally, consider signing up for a rec league at your local park or through your community. Low-intensity sports like soccer and softball are great for people looking to get back in touch with their sporting selves. You don’t need professional aspirations to start a new sport—just getting onto the field can be motivation enough.
Why Hydration Matters in Training
The best routine is one that leaves you feeling good. Some days, that might mean high-intensity training, and others, it’s all about active recovery (and it’s vital to balance these with rest days). Even low-intensity movement can leave you feeling drained if you’re not properly hydrated.
No matter what workout you’re currently doing, proactive hydration plays a huge role in how you feel before, during, and after your session. A well-hydrated body performs better, recovers faster, and keeps you moving strong.
Develop Your Fitness Journey with Muuv
Muuv is Nuun’s free training program designed to help beginners build a consistent fitness routine in a fun, approachable way—emphasizing flexibility, encouragement, and hydration-focused fitness.
When you join a Muuv with Nuun program, you’ll receive weekly emails with step-by-step training instructions featuring video demonstrations and encouragement. Unlike unstructured gym memberships or expensive personal training sessions, Muuv with Nuun is a balance of guidance, support, and community. Whether you are brand new to working out or getting back into movement after a break, Muuv meets you where you are and guides you toward progress—without the intimidation factor.
Best of all, Muuv with Nuun aims to make these fitness adventures accessible. These programs are completely free, with no obligation to purchase equipment or products. And, many of these training sessions are perfect for a home fitness routine, often with no equipment needed.
Explore Muuv with Nuun and discover a fun and judgment-free way to start your fitness journey, no matter how much experience you already have.
