Let’s face it. Exercise can be a real chore. We all know we’re supposed to do a nice mix of cardio and strength throughout the week, but sometimes it’s just a drag. Great news! It doesn’t have to be a bore! It’s possible to have fun while you’re getting exercise. You just have to get a little creative. How about one of these exercise ideas?:
Ultimate Frisbee: Instead of running for an hour, grab a group of friends to play ultimate frisbee. Ultimate frisbee pickup games burn as much as 572 calories in one hour. Can’t find anyone to play? Check out USAUltimate.org to find players in your area.
Hula hooping: This latest exercise fad is straight from our childhood! Sound crazy? It’s not when you think about it as calorie-burning cardio! The American Council on Exercise says an hour of hula hooping can burn just as many calories as step aerobics, brisk walking or even boot camp! And, it works out abs, back, arms and leg muscles and enhances balance and flexibility.
Dancing: Grab a partner and hit the dance floor! A current favorite — salsa dancing. One hour of salsa dancing burns almost as many calories as spending one hour on an elliptical machine.
Rowing: Of course, you’ll need to live near a lake or reservoir, but taking up rowing will tone your abs, glutes, shoulders and biceps, leading to development of strong muscles and bones!
Channel your inner child: Take a cue from the hula hoopers! Think about the stuff you used to do as a child that made you happy. Some fun ways to exercise and remain active include ice skating, golf, bowling, hiking, playing basketball, jumping rope, swimming, and roller blading.
No need to settle for a boring workout! There are endless ways to keep yourself entertained!