10 ways to exercise without the gym
Exercise is an important aspect of maintaining good health, and while going to the gym is a great way to keep fit, it isn’t for everyone. Whether you don’t have access to the gym, or the idea of going is a bit daunting, don’t worry – there are many ways to exercise without needing a gym membership or expensive equipment. From tennis to yoga and dancing, if you’re looking for inspiration, take a look at our top 10 favourite ways to exercise without the gym, so you can decide which activity is right for you.
Walking/Running
Walking or running is a great way to get your heart rate up and burn calories. The great part is that you can do this anywhere, at any time, and you don’t need any special equipment. Just put on a pair of comfortable shoes and hit the pavement!
Sports
Sports are a fun and competitive way to get exercise, and you can join local sports clubs or play with friends and family. For instance, there are a number of ways to play golf including going to a driving range, getting on a course, or even playing mini golf. Some popular sports to try out include football, tennis, and cricket. Plus, if you’re not quite ready to play competitively yet, don’t worry as there are many places where you can practise alone or have lessons.
Yoga
Yoga is a centuries-old practice that combines strength, flexibility, and balance. You can do yoga at home with just a mat and some instructional videos on YouTube or a yoga app. There are loads of types of yoga, so you might have to try a few before you find one that suits your fitness levels and interests.
Bodyweight Exercises
If you want to build strength and endurance without needing any equipment, bodyweight exercises may be for you. These types of exercises include push-ups, squats, lunges, and planks. You can do them anywhere you like, and they can be modified to fit your fitness level.
Cycling
Cycling is a low impact exercise that is great for cardiovascular health and building leg strength. You can cycle outdoors using cycle paths and trails, or indoors on a stationary bike. For added motivation, you may also want to consider joining a cycling club or group.
Hiking
If walking normally isn’t cutting it for you, you may want to try hiking for a change of scenery. Hiking is a great way to get exercise and enjoy nature at the same time, and allows you to challenge yourself and build endurance. You can find hiking trails in your local area or travel elsewhere to enjoy one of the many trails across the country.
Swimming
Swimming is a low-impact exercise that is great for cardiovascular health and building muscle strength, and is particularly good if you want to exercise while recovering from an injury. If you don’t have access to a pool, perhaps try open water swimming in a lake or ocean – but make sure you follow the proper safety guidelines!
Dancing
Dancing is a fun and energetic way to get exercise. You may choose to take dance classes, join a dance group, or dance at home with instructional videos. Dancing is a great way to build endurance, coordination, and confidence.
Skipping
While usually associated with the school playground, using skipping rope is actually a simple yet effective way to get a full-body workout. You can do this indoors or outdoors, and it’s a great way to boost your cardiovascular health and build arm and leg strength.
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
HIIT is a type of workout that involves short bursts of exercise followed by periods of rest. You can easily do HIIT workouts at home with bodyweight exercises, or with equipment like dumbbells or resistance bands. HIIT is an awesome way to burn calories and build endurance!
