If you’re like me, the thought of going to the gym every day seems as boring as listening to a history lecture. Even though I have the drive and desire to workout, I just can’t get myself motivated to run the treadmill again and lift the same weights I always lift--it is not only monotonous but it can actually keep you from getting the results you want. Your muscles become trained to the exercises you always do--so adding in a new regime can work as a kick start to seeing results faster.

Stairway to Heaven-

These notorious steps lie on the corner of 4th Street and Adelaide Drive in Santa Monica. Although seemingly

manageable the stairs are both steep and long; standing at the bottom of these steps will leave you feeling daunted but once you reach the top a sense of accomplishment will drive you to take on the steps again. Tips: Drink a lot of water and for an extra oomph to your workout, try adding some ankle weights; your legs will feel heavier with each step. 

http://www.bodyspex.com/Community.aspx?ArticleID=10

Surfing USA

Anyone who has seen clips or photos of professional surfers can attest to the fact that they arguably have the best bodies in the sports world. So why not paddle out and give long boarding a try? What makes surfing a great workout is that it uses every part of the body; the arms are the strength that paddles the board out into the ocean, the legs are used to direct the board while standing and the core is always in play for stability and balance. Tip: Beginners should try to sign up for a surf lesson--you get the workout along with a lifetime experience.

http://www.surflessonswithkatie.com/los-angeles-surf-lessons.php

Feeling Hot Hot Hot

Bikram Yoga is the hottest new craze--literally. The practice, originating from India, involves learning and attending

yoga classes in a heated room. While the practice is controversial, the feedback from class attendees has been phenomenal--and the headquarters are conveniently located in Downtown Los Angeles. Because the room is heated, more calories are burned and the breathing--an important part of the yoga mantra--must be more controlled. This new spin on the growing yoga craze adds excitement and sensuality to your workout: the heat makes many people strip down to their skivvies. Tips: make sure you stay hydrated, and definitely consult your doctor if you have any heart or health conditions before trying this out.

http://www.bikramyoga.com/

Dance With Me

With the popularity surrounding "Dancing With the Stars" comes the knowledge that the art of dancing is a fun way to shed some pounds. Whether you are a beginner or a trained ballerina, it never hurts to take a new dance class with a few friends. The Edge Dance Studio in Los Angeles has classes ranging from Jazz Funk to Belly Dancing to Classical Ballet, and if you call ahead you can audit a class before paying for the package. Tips: opt for a more classic form of dance like tap or ballet and you might just see a familiar face like recently spotted Ryan Gosling!

http://www.edgepac.com/

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough

Surprisingly one of the most popular ways to workout in L.A. is hiking, despite the smoggy air. There are severalplaces to hike around the area but probably the most well known is the Griffith Conservatory Hike. Part of an L.A. Park, Griffith hosts several trails and gorgeous views--the hike is so breathtaking that it won’t even feel like work. Bring a couple friends, a dog or go by yourself and enjoy the scenery as you trek your way up behind the Hollywood sign. Tips: drink a lot of water and bring a fanny pack. For those daring souls, try to jog the hike--it's much more difficult than you’d think.

http://www.laparks.org/dos/parks/griffithpk/index.htm

 

Photos courtesy of Creative Commons.

To reach staff reporter Tina de la Torre, click here.