After 10 years in this industry, I see it over and over--and have experienced the same frustration myself.  "I work out all the time.  Why don't I see results?"  People say this in exasperation, frustration and desperation--often.  Then the speculation comes.  "It must be age.  I just have to accept that my body is not the same as it was in my 20s."  "My metabolism must be slow."

I'm here to tell you, age is not enough to keep a person from being fit.  Sure, metabolism is affected as we age, and it does slow down a little bit.  However, it's not the factor people think it is!  I see too many write themselves off due to age and slow metabolism.  You CAN increase your metabolism through proper exercise and nutrition adjustments.  I've seen too many people in their 50s, 60s 70s and beyond who are fit, mobile, independent, positive and full of life.  The one thing they all have in common--they made fitness a part of their lifestyle.  They didn't write themselves off due to age.

Although there are several factors that go into raising the metabolism, I'm going to address one--the same old workout.  In my perspective, many of those that claim to work out all the time are also doing the SAME WORKOUTS over and over and over again.  They're in their comfort zone.  They know exactly what's coming next; they never have to look or feel stupid; they can go into auto-pilot.  For many reasons, it's easy to fall into this rut.  Although it is better to do this than nothing at all, it's not going to be enough to yield new results.  As we become more fit, we also need to change what we do so that the body will still benefit.  The body's ability to adapt can be amazing--even miraculous at times.  Doing the same thing causes the body to adapt and eventually it doesn't put out nearly the same amount of energy as it used to throughout the workout.  This means not as many calories get burned nor does the lean muscle increase (which helps to keep up the metabolism).

Do you have to give up your favorite things?  NO!  Keep some favorites, but throw in some newbies.  Try a new class format you've never tried before.  For example, if you do step consistently, try cardio kickboxing--something completely new.  Instead of steady-state cardio work try intervals.  Or--try a new sport (kickball, softball, deck hockey, etc); try a dance class; experience a different style of weight training (i.e. Crossfit).  The possibilities are endless!  What's great about the fitness industry is that it's constantly evolving and new formats, equipment, etc are always being developed.  If you've been doing the same routines or classes for about 8 weeks, find a change.  Incorporate something different to keep the body guessing thereby burning more calories and yielding better results.

I beg of you--let go of your fear of feeling awkward and try something new.  Your body will thank you for it!!!