fitness video's/running

[aka]

Hi. I want to jazz up my work outs a little with some variety. Right now I have a treadmill and I run about 11 miles a week. It's getting a little boring. Does anyone have any recommendations?

I've been thinking of going down to 7-8 miles a week and doing one day of an exercise video....any suggestions?

I've also considered taking a class. On the positive side I'd have other people to work out with, but on the negative side, going out to exercise might require a bit more motivation (not to mention $$)

I could also get a pedometer and run outside (once it warms up a little). Does anyone out there have a podemeter and do you like how it works?

One final question/thought. I've heard that a repetative activity (such as running) "loses" some of it's effect over the long term. By that I mean, the muscles kind of get used to the same activity so some of the initial benefits (such as weight loss, for me) lessen. Any thoughts on this?

Lilia

[kwormann]

I like to do aerobics in the am before work. I enjoy Kathy Smith

[emilycat]

One final question/thought. I've heard that a repetative activity (such as running) "loses" some of it's effect over the long term. By that I mean, the muscles kind of get used to the same activity so some of the initial benefits (such as weight loss, for me) lessen. Any thoughts on this?

Lilia,
The repetitive activity you're referring to pertains to weight training, not cardio activity. You'll still burn the same amount of calories running 5 miles now as you would a year from now (maybe more, because as you got fitter, you would be able to increase your distance, thus burning more calories)
I definitely wouldn't steer away from running because of that; it is, by far, the "most calorie-burning" exercise out there, provided you're not running 12-minute miles. Hope this helps!