Lately I’ve been in a slump when it comes to my workout playlist. No recent music has caught my attention or inspired me enough to really attack a good workout. I’ve turned to alternative methods of spending my time on the treadmill or elliptical as I get my cardio in. I’ve found that some of these make the time fly by way faster than listening to music ever did. Here are my top choices for passing the time during a workout when music just isn’t enough.
A good book
Reading is one of my favorite things to do, and sometimes my busy schedule doesn’t allow me the time to sit down with a good book. Recently, I’ve begun to read while doing some low intensity cardio such as walking on the treadmill or riding the stationary bike. When I’m engulfed in a suspenseful novel, thirty minutes can breeze by without me even checking the time. It’s also given me the chance to catch up on books I’ve been dying to read, it’s a win-win!
Podcasts or Audiobooks
If you prefer exercise that involves more movement than reading would allow, listening to a podcast or audiobook could be a great option for you. There are podcasts that are almost like TV shows where you have to follow a storyline, or you could catch up on the latest news about your favorite sports team or get your giggles on with some comedy. And if reading and exercise is a big no for you, see if you can find your book on audible – that way you make some progress in that novel and you get to hear it with character voices. There are a variety of categories to choose from, the possibilities are endless!
Catch up with a friend
Recently a friend of mine was in town for only a day, and although both of us have busy schedules, we both like to make the time to be active. Instead of going somewhere to eat where we’d have to spend money, we decided to go to the gym together. We chatted the whole time and got to catch up while simultaneously getting our daily workout in! If you choose to do this, just remember to be respectful or your fellow gym-goers (we were lucky enough to have the place to ourselves!).
Go outside
One of the most difficult struggles for me while working out is that I can become bored quickly. Working out outside minimizes this risk because there can be so much to look at. Doing a HIIT exercise in the park can include some great people watching, or going for a run can and taking in the scenery around you can fulfill the void of listening to music.
Written by GUADS staff member Emily
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