Combating workout boredom: get moving part IV

Have a think.
People tend to have their most creative ideas when they're doing something repetitive that doesn't involve intense focus. But, don't set out to solve the NHS crisis. Instead, use your time to ponder more solvable dilemmas, such as how you can get your boss off your back or how to deal with your in-laws.

Watch the telly.
If you’re in the gym, tune in to whatever you fancy, whether it's GMTV or Panorama. To add some spice to your workout, increase your intensity during the adverts. Many gyms now have extensive entertainment systems that allow you to tune in to the telly, surf the Internet, listen to a CD or choose from dozens of films, so you have no excuse for getting bored mid-sweat.

Monitor your heart rate.
To keep yourself occupied, use a heart rate monitor to create an interval programme. For instance, after warming up, you might alternate 5 minutes at the low end of your target heart rate zone with 5 minutes at the high end. Some machines have built-in heart rate monitors that calculate your heart rate when you grasp the handles. Or you can wear the type of monitor that wraps around your chest. The machine picks up the signal from the heart rate monitor strap and beams it on to the console right alongside speed and distance. Or if you're exercising outdoors, you can wear a special watch that picks up a signal from the chest strap.

Be chatty.
Some people believe if they're able to talk while exercising then they must not be working hard enough to make a difference. But that’s hardly the case. In general, during workouts your breath should be heavier than normal, but not so laboured that you can’t carry on a conversation.

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