We’re creatures of habit and it can be easy to slip into comfortable routines at the club. We all have that treadmill that’s set at just the right angle from the television, or that favorite playlist to pump us up on the weight floor. And that’s great! We want you to feel right at home when in the club and know what to expect each time you come in.

Yet as the days and weeks go on, continuing to do the exact same workouts every time can cause your motivation (and your results) to start to plateau. Synergy Health Club Petaluma Fitness Director Eli Nylund has seen this happen, and shares some helpful advice to ‘embrace the season of change’ this fall and mix up your workouts!

Why is it important to mix up your workout routine?

It’s important from both a recovery standpoint as well a progression standpoint. Here’s how:

From a recovery standpoint, if you do the same routine every day, you run the risk of overuse injuries by not allowing the body proper recovery time.

From a progression standpoint, if you do the same routine every day, the body will begin to adapt and plateau. This means that you may not see the same results, even though you’re working just as hard to achieve them.

If you’re stuck in a rut and doing the same things each time you  go to the club/gym, try these ideas:

  • If you’re used to hopping on the treadmill for 30 minutes every workout, try 30 minutes of strength training or yoga instead. A balanced workout routine should include: cardiovascular training, strength training, and flexibility/recovery work.
  • Instead of working the same weights every visit, try changing up the weights or reps scheme. Try heavier weights with less reps for strength development (for example, complete 5 sets with 6-8 reps each), or lighter weights with more reps for more muscular endurance (for example 3 sets with 15-20 reps each).

What are other ruts you see members getting into, and what advice would you give them?

One of the main ruts I see is boredom. Members who get tired of the same workout every day, but aren’t sure what changes to make, start to dread coming into the club. There’s a huge variety of offerings here and we want to help every member stay motivated toward their goals! Depending on their personal goals, I’ll  typically recommend trying a new class or working with a Personal Trainer (every member gets two complimentary sessions known as Welcome Workouts). We’re here to support you in reaching your goals.

For questions or support with your personal training needs, contact us today!  Click here for Synergy Health Club Petaluma and click here for Synergy Health Club Napa.

Provided in partnership with Active Wellness | September 2021