You know you should do more physical activity, you know of all of the health benefits that come from being more physically active. You’ve tried the whole gym thing, but it just didn’t work out for you. The temptation not to go to the gym right now is just too great. Who wants to go to the gym when there’s so much else to do? There are many other ways to get more active that aren’t about going to the gym. Sitting on the couch watching TV isn’t very active. Spending time reading a book or surfing the internet isn’t very active either. So why not try doing something like walking around the block instead? It doesn’t take long and it will help you burn calories. They’re about doing things like walking, biking, swimming, gardening, hiking, and even taking a walk around the block.
The list above includes many ways to stay fit and healthy. Some of the ideas include taking a walk, listening to music, going for a swim, dancing, and biking. There are so many things you can do to keep fit and healthy.
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1) Play with your Kids around the Yard
You’d be surprised at how much of a workout you’ll get playing catch with your kids. Time will fly while you are having fun and your children will enjoy the extra time with you. Just get out there and play.
2) Listen to the Music and Dance around the Living Room
While you’re dusting, putting up dishes, straightening up the kids’ rooms, or after you’ve been sitting around for too long, just play some of your favorite music and dance around in the house. Not only will you get your heart rate up, but you’ll also have more fun doing some of those chores.
3) Get started on gardening
When the weather is nice, just get out there and plant some flowers. Or you could start a little vegetable garden, trim some hedges, cut the grass, or plant a tree. You get the idea. Just get out there, enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, and play in the dirt. Yes, this actually counts as an exercise in our book. Here is a Garden Tools Set that contains everything you need for your gardening activity.
4) Go for a Walk with a Friend
Take a walk and invite a friend to come along. I’ve had some of the best conversations while on a walk. Getting to chat with a friend makes the time fly by and before you know it you’ve been walking for 30 minutes.
5) Listen to some Music or an Audio Book while You Walk
Again, keeping your mind on something else will make the time fly by and you’ll get some extra fun out of your walk. You may even want to consider getting an MP3 Player. You can easily add what you want to listen to and go for your walk.
6) Sign up for a Yoga or Pilates Class
Consider starting a yoga or Pilates class. Both of these workouts are pretty low impact and won’t leave you sweaty and sore (mostly). You may also enjoy meeting some new people in the class.
Check out this Yoga Fitness & Exercise Mats that are the ideal classic exercise mat for all types of yoga, Pilates and floor exercises.
7) Take some Dance Lessons with your Partner
Ok, here is the tough part: Convince your partner to take some dance lessons. Dancing will give you quite the workout and it’s just plain fun and of course romantic. You can choose dance classes for different styles: classical, Latin, street dance, cha-cha, salsa, etc. Pick something that sounds fun to you and go for it. You’ll enjoy the extra one-on-one time with your partner as well.
8) Go for a Swim at Your Local Aquatic Center
Swimming makes for some great exercise. It is low impact and easy on your joints. Start by swimming a few laps, or play in the pool with your kids.
9) Go for a Bike Ride
Take the entire family on a bike ride. You can ride through your neighborhood in the evenings or plan a longer trip for the weekend. Pack a picnic for extra fun and start peddling.
10) Go for a Hike
Look for some hiking trails in your area and go for a hike. This could be a fun activity for you and a friend or take the entire family along. Start with some easy trails and work yourself up to some longer or steeper trails.
Go ahead, pick one or two of the activities and get moving. I’m sure you’ll come up with plenty of versions of your own. Remember, if you don’t like any of the suggestions, try something else. Don’t worry about being perfect; just do something!
