Making the decision to get in shape is a great start. It means you’ve finally reached a point where you realize that your health comes first. You want to get serious about the process, but all you can think about is how grueling the next few months will be heading to the gym. Those awkward and difficult workout moves and spending hours using the exercise equipment is all but inspiring. Not everyone is cut out for doing crunches, sit-ups, lifting weights, and running on a treadmill. Yet, that doesn’t mean you have to give up on your goals to get fit. Finding fun ways to stay fit can be just the motivation you need to get ahead.
Learn a New Dance Style
Continual movement that gets your heart rate pumping is all you need to start burning those calories. If you’re not interested in going to the gym, perhaps you’d like to try dancing. Even if you know a few moves of your own, it couldn’t hurt to find a local dance fitness class to show you some more. You can learn how to pole dance, tap dance, ballet, or hip-hop and each of these dance techniques will work you out in ways you never imagined. All you need is some comfy gear, plenty of water, and a whole lot of confidence.
Play Community Sports
Lifting weights may not be your idea of fun, but if you enjoy playing sports you should try doing it more often to get in some exercise. Check your community to find local teams. Playing baseball, softball, or even basketball can really help you work up a sweat and meet some of your neighbors in the process. You’ll need the appropriate gear like baseball socks, cleats, and a protective gear, but you can easily find those things through vendors like Socks Rock and other sports outfitters.
Go Hiking
The treadmill can get boring. You’re stuck in one spot for hours just walking. You can make this beneficial exercise a lot more entertaining by taking it outdoors. Hiking is a great way to blow off steam. It also helps to strengthen your leg and core muscles. Take a hike at a nearby park or take some friends and find a new destination to hike every weekend. Be sure you have a sturdy backpack, some snacks, plenty of water, and wear comfortable clothing.
Take a Swim
Do you love being in the water? Not only is it soothing and therapeutic, but swimming can be a fun way to get fit. You can go to a public pool or pay for a membership at a local gym and do a couple laps each day. Your consistency will result in a better lung capacity, a boost in energy, core, leg, and arm muscle strength, increased flexibility, and an improved mood. Of course, you’ll need a swimsuit, towel, and perhaps head and eye gear.
Invite Family and Friends
If you simply find getting fit to be boring, then perhaps all the fun you need is some familiar company. Invite your friends and family to join in on your fitness journey. They can take dance classes with you, go for a hike, play sports, or go for a swim and make the occasion even more fun.
The obvious way to get in shape would be to go to the gym. Though it is an effective resource for health and fitness, it is not your only option. If you’re not motivated by the sometimes-grueling workout routines and exercise equipment, don’t give up on your goal to get fit. Instead, switch things up and have some fun. All of the above ideas are so much fun to participate in. You’ll be so busy smiling that you won’t even realize you’re getting closer to your goals.