3 Wacky Ways to Make Exercise Fun

Maruchy Lachance is president of Running Ninja!, a lifestyle brand for runners by runners. Running Ninja! offers a wide variety of apparel and gifts for runners to keep you happy and inspired while you're on the run.

Let's face it, if exercise is not bringing you some form of joy, you will more than likely not engage in it or stick with it. This is probably why most people who stick to a fitness plan enjoy it, or at least create a routine that makes exercise fun. Here are some wacky ways people inject fun into their routine:

The Musical - Most of us would not dream of starting a workout without our tunes. They pump us up and motivate us. Recently a friend confided to me that she listens to Broadway tunes during her weight training circuit workout and she imagines herself as the lead in the musical. So as she leaves the house for the gym she announces: "I'm off to the show." To which her husband will say, "Break a leg!"

The Fitness Guru - Another buddy confessed that she pretends she's leading the aerobic class that she attends. She says she arrives early to class to secure a spot in the front where she can watch herself in the mirror and can make sure she is using proper form in order to serve as a good example to her "class."

Scavenger Hunt - This is my favorite and probably the most creative. Ben likes to run very early in the morning. So, to fight off the boredom he has created a game of Scavenger Hunt that he plays with himself. Prior to heading out on his daily run he picks five things he must look for and find while on his run. The list will include things like wildlife such as spiders, random objects like a sock, litter (maybe a soda cup), a person (maybe another runner, or bicyclist), shiny things like loose change, CDs, etc. This keeps him entertained while keeping him aware of his surroundings.

I love hearing the ways people stay committed to their exercise routines. It doesn't matter what it is as long as it keeps you motivated. Feel free to share with us some of the ways you make your exercise more fun. We'd love to hear it!

Reprinted from Dietsinreview