Change it up

If you've noticed that your fitness levels have plateaued, or that you seem to be hanging on to some extra flab despite your best diet and nutrition efforts, I have some advice for you...

Change it up! The body is an amazing machine and it adapts fast. What worked last month won't be as challenging this month because the body has adapted to the challenge. So you gotta keep it guessing...

Are you a cardio fiend? Do you get on the elliptical for 45 minutes at level 12 and just ride it out? How about getting on the treadmill for 30 minutes instead (flat incline is fine) and alternate between one minute of a very fast pace and two minutes of a slower pace to pull the heart rate back down a bit. Interval training is a great way to jump start things.

The same approach can work in the weight area. Cut your rest time in between sets and exercises. Move quickly with slightly less weight.

The bottom line is do something different every 30 days. You can always return to a routine that is a favorite. But the key is to keep the body guessing. Otherwise you become so efficient at your current fitness regiment that it takes a longer workout to achieve your desired results...