Exercise isn’t just good for the body, it’s also good for the brain. Regular exercise can improve cognitive function, increase creativity, and even help prevent age-related cognitive decline. But for many people, exercise can be a chore.

Maybe you find it boring or tedious, or maybe you struggle to motivate yourself to get started. If that sounds like you, don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to make exercise more enjoyable for your brain. Here are a few tips to get you started:.

1. Mix It Up

One of the biggest reasons people get bored with exercise is that they do the same thing over and over again. If you’ve been running on a treadmill for months, it’s no wonder you’re starting to dread your workouts.

To keep things interesting, try mixing up your exercise routine. Add in some strength training, switch to a different cardio machine, or try a new workout class. The variety will not only keep you interested, but it will also challenge your brain in new ways.

2. Listen to Music or Audiobooks

Music can be a powerful motivator, making exercise feel more enjoyable and less grueling. Create a playlist of your favorite upbeat songs to listen to while you work out, or try tuning into a podcast or audiobook.

Engaging your brain with something interesting can help distract you from the physical exertion of exercise.

Exercising with friends or family can make it feel more like a fun social activity than a chore. Sign up for a group fitness class, organize a running group, or simply invite a friend to join you for a workout.

The social aspect can give you something to look forward to and help keep you accountable to your fitness goals.

4. Set Small Goals

If you find exercise overwhelming or unappealing, try breaking it up into smaller, more manageable goals. Maybe your goal for the day is just to walk for 10 minutes, or to do 10 push-ups.

Focusing on achievable goals can help build momentum and motivation over time.

5. Get Outside

Exercising outdoors can make a big difference in how enjoyable it feels. Fresh air, sunlight, and new scenery can all help energize and motivate you. Try going for a walk or run in a nearby park, or find an outdoor yoga class to attend.

6. Reward Yourself

Give yourself a little bit of positive reinforcement for exercising regularly.

It doesn’t have to be a big reward – maybe you allow yourself a small treat after a workout, or you buy yourself a new workout outfit once you’ve reached a particular fitness goal. Small rewards can help keep you motivated and make exercise feel more satisfying.

7. Focus on Mind-Body Connection

Instead of thinking about exercise as a separate activity from your mind, try to focus on the ways in which exercise can benefit your mental state.

Focus on your breathing during yoga or meditation, or try to notice the way your body feels during intense cardio exercise. By focusing on the connection between your mind and body, you may find exercise feels more engaging and satisfying.

8. Try a Fun Sport

Exercise doesn’t have to feel like exercise. If you dread the thought of hitting the gym, try picking up a fun sport instead. Join a local recreational basketball or soccer league, try rock climbing, or take up swimming.

Finding a physical activity that feels more like play than work can make all the difference.

9. Make It a Habit

The more you exercise, the more your brain starts to associate physical activity with pleasure. By making exercise a regular habit, you can rewire your brain to enjoy it more naturally.

Try to exercise at the same time each day, if possible, to establish a consistent routine.

10. Stay Positive

Don’t let negative self-talk drag you down when it comes to exercise. Instead of focusing on how hard it is or how much you don’t want to do it, try to think about the positive way exercise benefits your mind and body.

By staying positive and cultivating a can-do attitude, you may find exercise feels easier and more enjoyable.