5 Fun ways to stay motivated to work out & break out of that rut!

Staying in shape is hard work–even for celebrities! Jessica Alba recently posted images of herself on Instagram before and after her workouts and wrote, "Aren't you supposed to feel better after a workout?" The Latina actress voiced something most of us feel after exercising: we're more more worn out than energetic.

Alba is currently on a seven-day fitness challenge so you can imagine how grueling it is to be that committed. In fact, it's hard overall to stay on track with a workout plan because you might get bored or lose your motivation__.__ But every time you exercise doesn't have to feel like a task if you follow these tips…

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Currently I'm in training for my first marathon which means there are many times when I find myself lacking motivation or simply just bored of the same routine over and over again. However, the key to busting these bad habits is by keeping your workout routine fresh!

If you don't even know where to begin, here are some of our favorite and easiest ways to break out of that workout rut. We promise, you'll never be bored or unmotivated again!

Take a different route: If you're like me and you run on a frequent basis, then you know the same scenery can get boring sometimes. If you're on a treadmill it may feel like your workout is taking an eternity. The key here is to switch it all up! If you enjoy running outdoors, find a new running path or run in a different neighborhood. This always keeps me motivated–especially when the area has a breathtaking view. If you opt for a treadmill, switch up your incline and do various intervals while watching your favorite TV show or movie.

Try new classes: When I first started exercising, I found myself bored using machine after machine at the gym. I needed variety! That's when I started taking classes and found that this was the key to breaking out of my exercise rut. It helps to have a room full of other people who are motivated to stay in shape and an energetic instructor to keep you going.

Get a workout buddy: There are going to be days when you find yourself not wanting to exercise because you're "tired" or some other lame excuse. This is when having a reliable workout buddy helps a whole lot. If you can find a friend, family member, co-worker, or even your hubby to workout with you, the more on track you'll stay with your routine.

Set a goal: Sometimes your workouts may seem pointless because you aren't aspiring towards anything. This is when you can set a goal to work towards which can keep you motivated. Whether you want to fit back into your pre-pregnancy jeans, get stronger, or achieve your first marathon, setting a goal keeps your eye on the prize.

Just move: Exercising doesn't mean you have to be chained to a treadmill or an elliptical. Taking your workout outdoors whether you are trying out biking, hiking, or playing sports also count as a workout. Hey, even playing music and dancing as you clean the house counts as one! As long as you are moving daily, you are getting some type of exercise in.

Image via Jessica Alba/ Instagram