Many fitness fans find themselves falling into the dreaded exercise rut. This can result in a slippery slope. While some persevere and manage to trudge their way through it, others suffer dwindling motivation and decreased activity levels. Consequently, fitness goals suffer. Fight exercise burnout by keeping a resource list of fun fitness ideas handy. Consider the following suggestions.
Be classy. Sure, we’re familiar with fitness classes. Who hasn’t tried aerobics, spinning, yoga and the like? If you haven’t, get started. Most gyms offer specialty classes as part of your membership fee. Though some require additional fees, they’re usually reasonable. Not ready to cough up the dough? Visit a class for a trial session. For those who are burned-out on the usual gym classes, there are a plethora of others to keep your interest peaked.
- Capoeira: This Afro-Brazilian art form combines elements of martial arts, music, dance and games. Capoeira provides an intense cardio workout and increases stability levels. Classes are in group format, and its nearly impossible not to have a great time and meet new people. In no time, you’ll be a skilled Capoierista, and you’ll have the killer body to prove it.
- Belly dancing: Dance your way to a better belly. These classes are the hip new way to stay fit. Trained instructors teach you awareness of your belly, proper belly alignment and abdominal/lower back control and strengthening techniques. Classes are communal, so you’re bound to have a blast. Also, look for Bollywood-style classes, a mix of traditional Indian folk dance and hip-hop. Can’t find any in your area? DVDs are available online.
- NIA: Pronounced NEE-ah, this blend of Yoga, Tai Chi, modern dance and martial arts stands for Neuromuscular Integrative Action. Classes are popping up all over the country, and are designed for all ages and fitness levels.
A beach of a workout. Live near the water? Throw on your cross-trainers, slather on some sunscreen, and hit the beach. Too many people think the gym is the only place to get a good workout. Nothing could be further from the truth. Beach workouts provide the option of exercising outside, which helps many people see working out as pleasurable rather than punishing. The beach is an excellent place to cross-train. Try walking in soft sand, running on hard sand and, of course, swimming. Make sure you don’t skimp on the sunscreen, and wear sunglasses with generous UV protection. As with all workouts, bring and drink lots of water. Walking on sand is tough, and the workout is more difficult than average walking workouts, so you’ll need to spend more time stretching.
Box it Up. It now goes by many names, but a boxing-based workout still ranks among the heavyweights of fun workouts. Classes at the gym are great, but for a more intense (not to mention way more fun) experience, head to a boxing gym. There, you’ll find instructors and students dedicated to the sport. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be Rocky to fit it. Many boxing studios now have classes that cater to beginners, so you don’t have to go it alone. If going it alone is your thing, however, just purchase a bag, gloves and a jump rope. That’s all you need for a killer, total body workout.
Remember: if you get in a fitness rut, find something fun to do, and you’ll be burning calories in no time. Have a blast!