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Check out this post for some fun and more interactive ways to stay healthy and fit without stepping foot in a traditional gym setting.
Introduction
So many of us are encouraged to get active or workout, or want to get back into the gym of our own accord. Unfortunately, for many people, sticking to a strict and tedious workout routine can be boring and un-motivating. While it depends on each person's personal goals and what they are training for, there are also a variety of ways to stay active while having FUN. Yes, fun and working out can coexist. Here's some ways we think would be beneficial for incorporating this into your life.
Read on to see some amazing and fun activities to get fit!
1. Pickleball
Pickleball is in the running to quickly replace baseball as America's favorite pastime. Not only is this sport more accessible than tennis, but it has taken America by storm. While it used to be seen as a sport for older individuals, younger people are also adopting and enjoying this sport more than ever.
If you haven't heard of pickleball, it is a sport sort of like tennis, but with a smaller court. You can play in singles or doubles matches which helps make the sport versatile. It can be a good way to have some friendly competition among friends or it can involve more cardio (as in the singles version of the game).
Pickleball can be a fun way to learn a new skill, and make new friends. All this, plus you are getting outside (most of the time) and getting active. It can be an excellent way to get your cardio in for the day.
Check out our post here on how to get started with pickleball.
2. Rock Climbing
But hey, maybe pickleball isn't your thing, or cardio isn't your goal. As an alternative to calisthenics or resistance training, check out rock climbing. While this can be outside on the face of a mountain - as is commonly pictured- it doesn't have to be. In fact, you can find climbing gyms in most cities and large towns across the USA.
Rock climbing can be a great way to build upper body strength, balance, and stamina while also seeing improvement over time. Climbing different walls makes each time in the gym unique! You can set measurable goals and watch as you get stronger.
Not only will you get fit, but most gyms have an option to bring a guest. That way, you can climb and socialize with friends. This can be to have a good time, or perhaps to incite some friendly competition. Whatever you decide, rock climbing can be a great way to meet people, gain strength, and get some adrenaline pumping (not iron).
3. Explore Nature Parks
But hey, maybe you prefer something with a bit more water involved? Or maybe you really like the outdoors? Then, discovering nature parks near you could be a great way to get fit while also having fun.
It could be hiking a trail (check out the free site Alltrails) in a US National Park or going on a quick kayaking trip with one of your friends. Nature parks have a lot to offer. Often, you can find kayaking and paddle board rentals as well as some well maintained hiking trails.
This could make for a relaxing morning or afternoon excursion. You'll get some sun, and the outdoors has been shown to reduce stress levels. This is the perfect way to make staying active a pleasurable experience.
Check out our guide on what to bring to a nature park here.
4. Yoga
If your looking for something relaxing and low impact, try yoga! Yoga has been shown to calm the mind, as well as support the body in building strength over time. You might be left surprisingly sore after your first try! Most towns have a yoga studio where you can go and check out some classes.
However, since a lot of those programs cost money, we suggest looking up yoga videos online if you aren't sure about making such an investment right from the start. There, you can get a feel for the flow of the class and see if it is something you are interested. You may find you feel more grounded and calm after the class, as yoga relies heavily on meditative breathing to drive a relaxing flow between movement and breath.
A plus about yoga is you can do it virtually anywhere (use common sense) and you need little equipment. Just a good mat and maybe a blanket or block to get started.
If you are interested in a deeper dive into yoga, check out our guide here.
5. Martial Arts
This last one is a bit of a wildcard, but I'll put it in here for those looking for something intense and high energy. Obviously, this isn't recommended for those who have any existing injuries, and one should be made aware that there is a risk of injury in any fighting-style class.
However, that being said, I recently tried a Mixed Martial Arts class for the first time. Needless to say, it swept me off my feet. Though I was sore for days after, I thought it was an eye opening experience that exposed me to something completely out of my comfort zone.
Make sure you search for a reputable studio and find an instructor who is attentive and aware it is your first time.
While I don't think I will become a professional fighter anytime soon, I will say the class did shake up my workout routine and get the blood flowing (internally only though thank goodness).
Are You Ready To Try One of These Fun Exercise Alternatives?
Working out doesn't have to be a hassle. It can be a great way to learn a new skill and socialize with new people. If you're looking for a switch up to your usual routine, why not take the opportunity to try something new this week? For further reading, check out our blog posts on all of these topics, as linked below. As always, if you try any of these activities, please let us know down below! We love and appreciate your feedback.
Now, go get those hearts pumping while you find a little love for new forms of exercise with these fun exercise alternatives!