Workouts That Don't Feel Like Work

So your doctor says you need to exercise more, or maybe you've come to the realization that just dieting isn't enough. You need to exercise. I think now more than ever there are a variety of activities and exercise routines people can do to be active and healthy. Even if you're not the athletic type.

Exercise shouldn't feel like a punishment. Regular exercise not only helps your body, but it helps your mind. It will help control your weight, strengthen your bones, reduce the risk of heart disease, and help you sleep better. Exercise can help relieve stress and improve your overall quality of life. Reward yourself with exercise. Find a way to make it part of your daily or weekly routine.


Dance

So you like to go out to the club on a Saturday night or just dance around the house while doing chores. How about dancing for exercise? Dancing is a fun way to work your whole body without it feeling like a workout. Try one of these:

1. Zumba
2. Belly Dancing
3. Pole Dancing (don't judge by the name, it takes a lot of strength to hold your body up!)
   
4. Jazzercise (one of the original aerobic classes, there's a reason it's still around!)
5. Ballroom Dancing

Stretch

Want to improve your posture, flexibility or just relax? Try yoga or pilates, a la Jennifer Aniston. Today there are a variety of styles of yoga and pilates, so try them out to see which suits you best. Here is a basic guide of 8 major types of yoga.

1. Yoga
2. Pilates

Jump

Remember when you were a kid and wanted (or had)  trampoline? You'd bounce for hours on that thing! It was fun, and little did you know the amount of muscle you were using. Trampolines are trending, with businesses popping up with space to jump for hours. Many even offer dodgeball events or specialized workout classes besides "open jump".

Get Wet

Get in the pool! Don't just work on your tan, but work on your body too. Swimming is a great way to exercise without putting any weight or strain on your body. If swimming laps isn't your thing, just kicking around or treading water works your legs and butt.

Fly

Get in the air with a trapeze class or antigravity yoga! Want to feel suspended in air and build strength at the same time? One of these classes may suit your fancy.

1. Trapeze
   
2. Hammock/Antigravity Fitness

Games

Grab some friends (or your kids) and play. Indoors, outdoors, wherever you can! Think of your childhood.

1. Ultimate Frisbee
2. Hula Hoop
3. Hopscotch
4. Mini Golf
5. Tag
6. Dodgeball
7. Kickball

Wheels

Getting rolling with one of these fun activities! You can do any of these alone or with a buddy.

1. Ice Skate
2. Roller/Inline Skate
3. Bicycle
4. Scooter

What other fun activities can you think of that don't involve a gym or weight lifting? I think you can take almost anything that involves movement a make it a workout. So get to it! Have fun while being active, either by yourself, with friends or family.