Sometimes I really envy my friends and “blends” who are personal trainers and/or fitness instructors. While I know their lifestyle can be incredibly tough (early and late hours training clients, working on commission, eating on the go, and having to commute to various gigs in different parts of town), I often wish I had the freedom to set my own schedule and enjoy (seemingly) unlimited access to the gym.

But…that’s not my life, so I have to find a way to fit exercise into my own busy schedule.

One minute I’m obsessed with adult gymnastics, and the next I’m sweating my brains out (possibly literally) 3-4 nights a week at Bikram. And let’s not forget my season of running—from “fun run” to 5K and 10k. Half-marathon, we shall meet one day.

Post-baby, there was cardio barre. Then boot camp and BODYPUMP. And I still want to incorporate some heavy lifting into my routine if I can ever overcome my “gymtimidation.”

So why do I mix it up so much? To avoid the dreaded fitness rut.

I’m sure you’ve been there. You find yourself in a new routine—upping your weights and setting PRs on the pavement—and yet something isn’t right. You’re bored.

I’ve mentioned it before, but fitness should never be boring! If you’re not enjoying it, you’re not doing it right.

Below are 5 ways to overcome a fitness rut.

1. Buy some new workout clothes.

Is this frivolous? Yes—but can you honestly tell me that your confidence and desire to go to the gym doesn’t soar when you buy a new pair of leggings? If you’re feeling down and lack the motivation to complete your workouts, treat yourself to a new top or pair of shoes—but with the understanding that you’ll actually use them.

2. Sign up for a race

I’m not a big runner, but I love races. There’s something invigorating and addicting about crossing the finish line as part of a huge (or small) group. If you normally run long distance races, try signing up for a 5K and increasing your speed. If running is completely new to you, grab a friend and try out Couch to 5K or something similar. You may actually enjoy the challenge!

3. Try out a new group fitness class or boutique studio

I don’t know about your city, but in mine, new fitness studios are popping up left and right. Orangetheory finally opened here, and I’ve been meaning to try a new rowing studio called Crew Fitness. Often your first class is free, so there’s little risk involved if you don’t love the class, and it’s possible you’ll meet a new, like-minded friend who can offer encouragement or direct you to something else you may enjoy. And don’t forget fitness videos—many, such as the BeFit I reviewed here, are available online.

4. Hire a personal trainer

I realize there’s a lot of money involved here (which is why I haven’t done it myself yet) but working with a trainer is a great way to fill a fitness void. I mentioned above that I am dying to start weightlifting, but having no prior experience or workout buddy to accompany me, I fear hurting myself with bad form or misuse of equipment (plus I’m dreadfully self-conscious). A trainer could help me with this—and if we communicate well, he or she might turn me on to a totally new type of exercise that I wouldn’t have tried on my own.

5. Take a break

Go on a mini-vacation, or just take a freaking nap. If you’re bored and don’t feel like pushing your body, you are probably working too hard. Unless you’re training for a competition, I urge you to simply put your workouts on the back burner. Seek those positive vibes in other ways: treat yourself to the spa, read a book, or tackle some much-needed housework. I guarantee you will not gain massive amounts of weight or lose all of your muscle tone, and you will probably come back more inspired to get your body moving, however that may be.

If you’re stuck in a fitness rut, I hope some of these tips give you the motivation you need to make some changes. If all else fails, please pay attention to #5—there’s no shame in rest.

• How do you keep your fitness routine interesting?
• Do you ever just need to take break from working out—and how did that make you feel in the long run?
• What’s the best workout you’ve tried recently?