The average cost of a gym membership in the U.S. is about $58 a month, and that rate can be higher depending upon the facility and included features. That means you could be spending nearly $700 or more annually on a gym that you may not even be using as often as you should.
The better solution? Taking physical activity outside the gym to get fit and burn calories. Here are five ways to exercise at home or outdoors while having fun at the same time.
1. Ride a Bicycle
Cycling is a low-impact (meaning it puts little pressure on your knees), fun, and scenic way to get a little exercise outdoors while exploring your neighborhood. When used as a mode of transportation to pick up a few things at the store, it’s also environmentally friendly.
Find a bike that fits your needs. If you enjoy trail rides and riding on uneven pavement, a heavy duty mountain bike can make excursions more comfortable for you. If you’re sticking strictly to paved roadways, a hybrid or touring bicycle is perfectly fine.
You’ll need a helmet, sneakers that can grip the pedals, stretchy pants or shorts, and a bike lock (if you plan on taking your bicycle places.)
2. Try Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Paddle boarding lessons have cropped up all over the country in recent years as the sport has taken off. You’ll improve your balance, strengthen your core, and work both your upper and lower body muscles as you glide through the water. Paddle boarding can be done on the ocean, but beginners will want to stick to wave-free waterways such as lakes and ponds where permitted.
And if you happen to fall in, there’s no better way to get a refreshing dip on a hot summer day.
3. Run a Spartan Race
If you enjoy running, but are looking for a true challenge and aren’t afraid to get dirty, a spartan race may be right up your alley. A spin-off of the more punishing “death race”, spartan races are obstacle courses that are a little less hardcore so more people can participate in them. But don’t let that fool you; spartan races still require endurance as participants may find themselves channeling their inner Tarzan as they climb walls, crawl through mud, swinging on ropes, and conquer other obstacles.
If you think you’ve got what it takes, check out Spartan Race Reviews to find a course length and level that’s right for you.
4. Jump a Rope
Don’t dismiss this simple activity that you most likely did on the school playground. Jumping rope torches up to 10 calories a minute while building muscles in your arms and legs. And the best part is it can be done indoors or outside.
5. Crank Up the Tunes And Dance
Rainy or cold day? Maybe an indoor dance session should be on the agenda. Turn on your favorite playlist and bust some moves to torch calories and improve your mood.
Or invest in some workout DVDs and exercise equipment to use when you can’t get outside to play. You’ll save money and time that you would otherwise be spending in a car getting to the gym.
Ditch the Gym and Try These Fun Ways to Exercise
You don’t need a gym membership to stay in shape. Switch up your routine with these five fun ways to exercise and you’ll never get bored with working out!
Catch up with our latest lifestyle posts for more tips on keeping fit and staying healthy.
