The gym is not the only place where you can improve your health and fitness. Here are 6 ways to exercise without a gym!
Did you know that exercise can lead to an increased chance of living longer?
Studies have shown that people who exercise for 150 minutes a week have a 33 percent lower chance of dying early than those who do not exercise.
Exercise has been shown to positively impact numerous parts of the body including your brain, heart, bones, and muscles among others.
Many believe the only way to get a workout in, is by going to the gym. However, this is not true.
Keep reading to find some ways to exercise while your gym is closed.
1. Get Outside
There is so much to do outside that is fun and can be considered exercise. The benefits of working out don't have to be just for the people hitting the gym. Here are some ways you can enjoy being outside while also getting a workout in.
Hiking
Hiking is a great way to build stamina while also enjoying some fresh air. Depending on the area you live in, some hiking trails can provide great scenery and views.
Swimming
Swimming is a great way to start if you are wondering how to improve your cardio without running. Swimming is a fun way to get your blood pumping and is low impact, so it will not be as harsh on your joints.
Biking
Biking is another great low-impact option that will help you improve your cardio. Biking is also a good way of getting around without wasting money on gas.
Walking
Walking doesn't get as much credit as it deserves. Studies have shown that walking can reduce your risk of cardiovascular events by 31 percent and can also cut your risk of dying by 32 percent.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is a good all-around workout. You are working your heart which will benefit your cardiovascular system, and also your muscles.
Rock climbing can be more dangerous than other exercises on this list so it is recommended to start small or hire a professional to help you.
Kayak/Canoe
Both kayaking and canoeing are fun ways to exercise in the outdoors and see some beautiful scenery and wildlife.
2. Yoga
Yoga is quickly becoming more popular, and for good reason. Yoga is not only a way to get your body in shape, but your mind in shape as well. Humans have been practicing yoga for over 5,000 years.
Studies show that yoga has increased in popularity and that 9 percent of the population uses yoga as their means of exercise. In Canada, yoga is the second leading form of exercise in popularity.
Some of the benefits yoga practitioners have reported are:
- Increased flexibility
- Increased muscle strength
- Improved respiration
- Higher energy levels
- Weight reduction
- Injury prevention
- Better quality of life
- Lowered stress levels
- Increase body awareness
- Mental clarity
- And feeling calm
If you would like to experience some of these benefits and need some help getting started, check out these yoga essentials.
3. Exercise Apps
Today, there are many options available to get a good workout in, and not all of them have to be done in the gym.
There are so many apps both free and paid for that can help you get started on your fitness goals.
Some of the best fitness apps out today for you to try today include:
- AllTrails - This free app is loaded with more than 50,000 trails for you to try. You can hike, bike, and walk your way through as many trails as possible.
- Trainerize - If you need accountability this app is worth a shot. With personalized workouts, meal planning, and video-based workouts, this will motivate you to hit your fitness goals.
- Johnson & Johnson Official 7-minute Workout - This app is great for beginners. They provide 7-minute, full-body workouts that are research-based from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
4. Resistance Bands
Resistance bands provide an easy and efficient style of working out. They have been around since the early 1900s but have recently made a comeback.
The resistance bands are versatile and portable. You can take them anywhere and get a good workout in.
You can perform basic moves like arm curls and lateral raises or get a full-body workout in with squats or overhead presses.
5. Dancing
Dancing is so much fun and great cardio. You can dance for hours on end and burn a significant amount of calories in the process.
Recent studies have shown that dancing has positive effects on cardio and brain health. It has even been proven to be more effective than conventional fitness programs.
Whether you are dancing freestyle at home or taking an online class, you are sure to work up a sweat and get some exercise.
6. Take an Online Class
Nowadays, there are online fitness classes for everyone. If you are looking for ways to build confidence and get in shape, maybe try finding a class online that suits you.
Whatever your interest may be, they most likely have a class you can take to improve your skills and learn discipline.
Classes can range from expert to amateur and everywhere in between. They are a great way to learn new skills and get some exercise while doing it.
Final Thoughts
You now have 6 ways to exercise without even having a gym membership. There are no excuses now so get out, get active, and have fun.
