Cross-training
Try "cross-training" to alternate your exercise activities. For instance, if you're walking three times a week, go to the gym every other night to use the rowing machine. By mixing and matching complementary activities, you can work different areas of your body, prevent boredom, and avoid injuries.

Exercising at home
Exercising at home has undeniable appeal for many people. It allows you a flexible schedule. It's convenient, and it's private, which can be important if you avoid exercise in public because you're self-conscious about your body.

There is a vast array of home-exercise equipment available—treadmills, rowing machines, and many more. Each model requires research and investigation, especially when the price tag climbs into the thousands. It's important to look for sturdy, secure equipment that won't place you at risk for injury. Also, look for equipment that provides the kinds of specific routines that you want. Otherwise, you may end up with an expensive coat rack in your den. Try out equipment before you buy and beware of purchasing mail-order equipment if you're not familiar with it.

Place your equipment in an area where you can read, listen to music or the radio, or watch television while you work out. Exercising in front of a blank wall in the basement is likely to bore you. Try to incorporate exercise into your usual activities. If you like to watch the evening news, watch while riding an exercise bike or walking on your treadmill. If you listen to the radio, put on a portable radio when you go for your walk.

Exercise and travel
It's easy to have your exercise routine disrupted when you leave home. Try to substitute other ways to be active, though. For instance, if you plan to stay at a hotel, find one with an on-site fitness facility or pool. Most have all the equipment you need to do aerobics activities and strength training. Failing that, your hotel may have special arrangements with a health club in the area. (If you belong to a health club, check before you leave to see if it's affiliated with any others in the town you're visiting.)

The easiest way to stay active while traveling is to walk as much as possible. Stroll around the city on foot instead of taking taxis. Find out if there are walking trails nearby. Finally, you can pack a jump rope or rubber tubing and do fitness work outs in your hotel room.