Alternative Workouts Instead Of The Gym
Getting in shape is hard and sometimes extra eyes at your local gym can make it seem virtually impossible. Whether you are just starting out or you’ve had enough of paying those gym fees, here are some alternative workouts to try instead of the gym. These are just some activities I’ve tried on my up and down journey with fitness as alternative workouts!
1. Dance
There are few things as exhilarating as dancing and it can also be a great way to get your feet moving! Zumba works for a lot of people and it is something you can do in the comfort of your own home with your gaming console. If that seems a little pricey you can always do a simple dance workout or dance routine search on YouTube. One of my favorite channels is superherofitnesstv because Keaira LaShae gives manageable dance workouts and uses music you want to dance to instead of those soft instrumentals! This is one of the best alternative workouts!
2. Take That Walk
We walk a lot throughout the day without even realizing it but there is something different about intentionally taking a walk for exercise. You move at a steady pace and can utilize step counters to track your movement patterns. Consider teaming up with your significant other to take daily walks as a way to exercise and to catch up on your day. This is a great alternative instead of the gym because you don’t have to worry about bumping into weights or the countless others working out nearby.
3. Break Out The Old Hula Hoop
Remember when you were in elementary school and you rushed to the playground with a neon hula hoop in hand? You can bring that same excitement back to your workout! You can use a standard hula hoop to exercise or even purchase a weighted hula hoop to get that core in shape. There is something about the nostalgia and carefree nature of the hula hoop that makes it an enticing alternative to the gym. See if you can still swing that hula hoop around your neck like the old days! This is one of my favorite alternative workouts!
4. Bike Ride
An activity that rises and declines in popularity, bike riding is a fantastic alternative to the gym. Not only can you discover local trails, but you can make it a lifelong hobby. It will help you get active and open you up to a community of people who share the same drive. Much like the hula hoop there is something comforting about a bike ride that transports you to another headspace and can make working out seem less daunting.
5. Hike
Hiking has never been one of my strong suits, but I do understand the appeal. Getting to breathe fresh air as you walk further up and ending with an expansive view of your surroundings has definite drawing power. Whether you hike to the top of Mission Peak or plan a more extravagant trip, hiking is an alternative to the gym that will test your strength in numerous ways.
6. Add A Person & Get Your Sport On
Whether you prefer a basketball court or a tennis court, working out with a partner can relinquish the need for a visit to the gym. Playing a sport daily increases your endurance and if it is something you have loved your entire life, introducing it to someone else can make it that more enjoyable. I enjoy playing badminton with my family and significant other whenever I have the time. Since I have loved it my entire life, I didn’t realize for a long time that it was helping me stay active. Whichever sport you prefer, get out there! This is one of the greatest alternative workouts!
Consider these alternative workouts on those days when the gym seems too far away! What are your favorite alternative workouts? Tell us in the comments!
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