Variety is the Spice of Life!

It’s easy to get stuck in the same workout routine day in and day out. Many of us go to the same class at the same time everyday. We run or bike the same trails, and often do the exact same movements at the gym, especially if we’re doing open gym. We do this because it’s easy for our brain, we know how to do the movements, how to get to the gym or trail, and exactly how long it should take. The problem is that once the body and brain understand what you are going to do next, the opportunity for growth greatly drops. When we switch up our workout routine, we stimulate different muscle groups and prevent boredom. Your brain and body will thank you for staying engaged and learning new activities, and thus, producing new results.

When we change up our routine, we are able to break through a weight-loss or weight-gain plateau a bit easier. When learning a new movement or activity your body has to work harder and therefore is required to use more calories. This is also a great way to prevent overuse injuries. When putting your body through the same motions over and over again, it’s likely your muscles break down and can create repetitive strain injuries. When doing the same movements over and over, those nagging injuries have a way of creeping back in. It’s easier to build new muscle when your body is forced to change the direction and tension in which the muscles are working. Keep it fresh and try a little bit of everything for the best results.

At Boulder Athletics we offer a variety of classes! Our BLDR60 class is geared toward the individual looking for it all - lifting, heavy breathing, accessory work, and often all in the same class session! BLRD60+ adds just a bit more to our traditional BLDR60, and challenges you to hold on longer and push just a bit more. In BLRD45, you will see more of the traditional lifts (Ex: Back Squat, Front Squat, Deadlift, Strict Press, Push Press). And of course, you will get a daily dose of heavy breathing and interval training in just 45 minutes. Our BLDRStrength class is a fan favorite and will give you an hour and a half of technical lifting in which you can test your strength, coordination, and accuracy. Lastly, the BLRDEngine is a longer sustained effort and will undoubtedly make you faster and stronger with running, rowing, ski erg, and jumping rope. While we don’t have BLDREngine on the schedule right now, this is always a great option for open gym and can often even be done outside!

Try a new class this week. Your body and brain will thank you!

Coach Emily