We all have that friend who practically lives at the gym. Their social media timelines are full of sweaty pictures, flexing and showing off their bodies. They probably go hiking on the weekends and exclusively drink protein shakes. Then, there’s the rest of us.
Not everyone loves to exercise. But whether you enjoy it or not, regular physical activity is essential for a healthy body and good quality of life. In fact, not getting enough exercise can lead to an array of nasty effects, from increased risk of cardiovascular disease and Type 2 Diabetes to loss of bone mass and energy imbalance.
So what’s the solution? Luckily, you don’t have to work out for hours on end to get the basic cardio and muscular activity you need to stay healthy. Here are some off-the-beaten-path approaches to getting and staying in shape.
Mow Your Own Lawn
Doing your own yard work not only saves you money, but it’s a great way to get outside and start sweating! When you have a task to focus on an obvious end goal—like a freshly mown lawn—to work towards, it can be easier to push through physical activity.
A person weighing around 150 pounds can actually burn upwards of 165 calories just by mowing their lawn with a push mower for 30 minutes. Other types of yard work, such as gardening and trimming back overgrown bushes, can promote both cardiovascular endurance and tone muscle. And you’ll end the day with a beautiful lawn to boot.
Pick Up Drumming
Playing instruments is great for mental and emotional health, allowing you to get swept up by melodies and create something magical. But have you ever considered the physical health implications of playing instruments?
Percussionists truly put their whole bodies into their music. Whether they are carrying heavy drums in a marching band or beating away on a drum set, playing the drums can be an incredibly intense cardio exercise to get in shape. And while equipment often comes with a heavy price tag, you can buy great used percussion equipment for stellar prices at DCP and other drumming stores. This rhythmic hobby could just be your new favorite way to sweat it out.
Take a Self-Defense Class
You can never be too prepared for what life may throw at you. A self-defense class is an awesome way to learn how to protect yourself while simultaneously strengthening your body.
When taking a class, your focus is on learning a skill instead of on any physical discomfort you may be in. Self-defense training courses can be anaerobically challenging, with high-intensity action occurring in the blink of an eye. Practicing self-defense can prepare you to spring into motion for your safety while also getting your heart rate up.
Go Out Dancing
When you’re surrounded by friends and your favorite music is blaring, you won’t ever stop to think about how much exercise you’re getting and still getting in shape!
Hitting the dance floor is a great way to get in some cardio and have the time of your life doing it. Studies have shown that moderate-intensity dancing was tied to a lower risk of death from cardiovascular problems. You can make memories with your crew on the dance floor while setting yourself up for good heart health in the long run.
Bottom Line
There is no one right way to exercise to get in shape. As long as you are moving your body, you’ll reap the benefits. Why not find something that works for you? The more you enjoy an activity, the more likely you’ll stick to it, and the better your health will be!
Featured Image by 5132824 from Pixabay
