So, you've finally managed to fit exercise into your daily routine. The changes in your physique and energy level may be enough to keep you motivated for months, but as time wears on, feelings of boredom and discontent begin to replace the enthusiasm you once had. You begin to dread your workout -- a sure sign that you are suffering from fitness burnout. But fear not; there are ways to get past this and regain your workout enthusiasm.

Identifying a fitness burnout is simple. When you notice your normal workout routine is no longer challenging, it's time for a change. The human body will eventually adapt to any exercise routine, and improvements in physical fitness will cease when the body no longer receives enough stimuli for change. Though you won't necessarily experience a decline in your fitness level, the fact that you're no longer making progress should be reason enough to switch things up.

To begin, try something simple such as varying your usual workout. Gradually increasing the duration or intensity of your session may be enough to maintain interest and provide challenge. So instead of a 30-minute run on the treadmill, try 45 minutes this week. Next week, add some speed intervals.

Sometimes a minor change is simply not enough. In these instances, it's time to surprise your muscles with a completely different activity. Participating in a wide variety of fitness activities, or cross-training, is an important part of any long-term fitness regimen. Not only will it provide the variety you desire, it will also help you to attain a higher level of fitness and prevent injuries from overuse. Discover a few activities you enjoy and change things up daily.

As you design a cross-training regimen, it may be beneficial to include the often-forgotten areas of fitness such as flexibility, balance, coordination and agility. Even if you are in terrific shape from cardio and weights, there is certainly another aspect of fitness that will provide you with a great challenge. For instance, the Yoga/Pilates Fusion classes offered by Recreational Fitness at Penn State are a great way to incorporate some of the other aspects of fitness into your usual routine.

Or perhaps you need a change of scenery. Spending hours in the gym can become monotonous. A good alternative is to try some outdoor activity. Central Pennsylvania is beautiful this time of year, and now is the perfect time to take up an outdoor recreational activity like hiking or cycling. The change of scenery and refreshing fall air may be enough to do the trick.

Yet another way to get out of an exercise rut is by enlisting a workout buddy. Find someone who is competitive and will beat you into the ground. Or just enlist a friend to exercise with -- simply having someone come along can make things seem more exciting.

To add interest and make your workout routine seem a little more meaningful, sign up for a race or compete in a team sport. Having a training goal could be the motivation you need to step up the intensity of your workouts.

If all else fails, take a break. Abandon your old routine for a week or two. When you come back to it, chances are you'll be feeling fresh and ready to go.