Is exercise the last thing you want to do today? Maybe it is time to spice up your routine with shorter sessions or a new location. Incorporate these five fitness trends, and you will be back to loving your workouts in no time!

Shorter workouts

Few of us can commit to long gym sessions. Fortunately, research shows that shorter workouts can be just as effective. The catch is you have to turn up the intensity. You can meet physical activity recommendations with 20 to 60 minutes of vigorous exercise 3 days per week (American College of Sports Medicine). High-intensity interval training, exercise that alternates intense bursts with short recovery periods, is one way to increase intensity while adding variety to your routine.

Group personal training sessions

Hiring a personal trainer to guide and motivate you is beneficial, but regular sessions can get expensive. Many studios offer group sessions to help lower the costs. You can form a group of 3 to 4 people, split the cost, and have your trainer lead you through similar exercises. This type of personal training saves you money, and it creates a network of exercise partners who share your goals.

Full body strength training moves

Full-body exercises involve both your upper and lower body. Your body is challenged in new ways due to the balance required and the use of small and large muscle groups. Because you work more muscle groups at once, you can do fewer exercises while still getting a full-body workout. Try incorporating full-body moves like lunges with a bicep curl or burpees in your workouts.

Moving more all day long

Research shows that moving more throughout the day, in addition to regular workouts, is necessary to maintain health. Short exercise sessions keep you moving and can add up to a full workout. During your workday, create a circuit routine by climbing the stairs, walking the hallways, and doing wall pushups. You can also invite coworkers to go on walking meetings.

Outdoor activities

Many exercise instructors are moving classes outdoors, and that's a good thing. Compared with indoor exercise, studies show that outdoor exercise is associated with increased energy and decreased tension.

Lori Rice, M.S., is a nutritional scientist and author with a passion for healthy cooking, exercise physiology, and food photography.