Should You Vary Your Exercise Routine?

While many dedicate themselves to starting a regular exercise regimen as a New Year’s resolution, those who have been exercising may wonder when—or if—they should change their exercise routines.

There is quite a bit of debate about the topic. Proponents say that after repeating the same routine over a period of time, the body “plateaus,” and no longer burns as many calories as it did previously.  Varying the exercise routine provides more effective weight loss and can also help avoid injuries.

The other facet of the debate states that even routine workouts maintain their benefits, and there have been no conclusive scientific studies to confirm that exercise routines must be occasionally changed in order to be effective.

The bottom line is that there are no hard and fast rules about when or if you should change your exercise routine. Of course, varying your routine does help prevent boredom, and variety may help you exercise regularly throughout the year. Keep your regular exercise routine as long as it is beneficial, but if your strength or performance decreases, you may wish to concentrate on certain muscle groups.

Speak to your physician about what exercise program is best for you.