As an ex-athlete who reached top physical shape through my sport, I thrive in workout settings that have concrete goals beyond getting into shape. Transitioning to a standard workout routine, however, has proven more challenging to maintain without being able to easily apply the competitive mindset. So, I've shaken things up. Here's a few workouts I've tried to make working out more fun.

1. Barre

Barre classes are great for ex-dancers because it brings them back to their roots, but it's also great for those looking for muscle strengthening and flexibility. Though the material is easy to pick up, you will feel the burn for the entire 50-minute class.

2. Cycling

Classes like those at SoulCycle or Flywheel takes exercise and makes it a culture. The first few classes are exhausting, not gonna lie, but it's a kind of workout that leaves you feeling proud that you made it through.

3. Kayla Itsines #BBG

The great thing about Kayla Itsines workout regimen is the community that it has created. Tag #bbg on Instagram, and men and women from all over the world will step up to cheer you on and motivate you to push through her 28-minute circuit training workouts.

4. Aerial Acrobatics

Trapeze, lyra and silks classes are a creative way to build up core and upper-body strength. Not only are you building muscle you didn't even know you had, but you're also developing a skill that can progress as you continue to take classes.

5. Your sport...at an intramural level

If your sport was something that you love, join a casual league to get yourself back into it. Whether it's joining an intramural soccer league or taking a dance class in your respective specialty, sometimes going back to what made you active when you were younger is the key to getting back into shape.