If you are anything like me, you take a somewhat disdainful view of your friends and acquaintances who have exorbitantly expensive gym memberships. Those who have no life beyond working out, and who freak out if they miss their morning run…
While I’ve come to respect people who take working out seriously, it’s never something I would do. Still, it’s absolutely essential for everyone, no matter what age or weight, to get some exercise in on a regular basis in order to maintain a healthy body and mind. For those who would rather skip that hamster wheel feeling you may sometimes get at the gym, here are some easy and enjoyable work out ideas.
1. Going for a long walk.
Believe it or not, vigorous walking can be just as good for your health as heart attack-inducing, joint-destroying running. As long as you can walk fast enough to where you can feel your heart pumping lightly, you’ll know you are getting in a good work out. Make it as enjoyable as possible by taking your dog with you, going to the park, or listening to your mp3 player while doing it.
2. Joining an informal adult sports league.
The only way you’ll consistently work out is if you are having fun while doing it. Even if you’ve never really played sports before, it’s a good idea to take advantage of any programs your employer may offer; like a company softball team. You can also join informal sports leagues on your own, which are offered in most towns and cities. Ask some of your buddies to join you, and you’d be surprised by how much fun you can have running around trying to kick, dribble, or bat a ball. Especially since these leagues are usually not about competition and are more about enjoying yourself, you’ll get a great work out without if feeling like one.
3. Biking to work or any other reasonably located destination.
The key to getting in exercise for people like us who don’t like to exercise is to participate in an activity that doesn’t really feel like a work out. One way to do that is to kill two birds with one stone. Going over to your friends house who lives a couple miles away? Why not bike there instead of driving? If you live close enough to your work, consider biking or walking there as well. Since you have to go to whichever location you are considering anyway, might as well combine transportation and exercise. It’ll make you feel as though you are accomplishing more than just working out.
Of course, these are just a few ideas to get you started on a workout routine that you can feasibly keep up with, but there are tons of other things you can do to stay in shape without getting bored. Just brainstorm ways that will get your body moving while still keeping your mind engaged. Good luck!
Author bio:
Jemima Lopez is a freelance blogger and writer who writes for Zen College Life, the directory of higher education, distance learning, and best online schools. She welcomes your comments at her email: Â lopezjemima562@ gmail.com.
