We are not embarrassed to say that we’ve packed on a few more kilos than before due to inactivity and extra food and lack of fun. But now it’s time to get our bodies moving, start our workouts even though we are tempted to sleep in for a little while longer in the mornings.
Quite frankly, we miss the quiet days. That’s probably why we’re dreading the thought of going back to the gym or on our morning runs. The trick to get back in shape when you’re feeling like this, we believe, is inducing a heavy dose of fun into your workouts. There are so many exciting and enjoyable types of exercise out there, we’re going to help you find something that clicks for you…
Trampolining
Jump, jump, jump! Who doesn’t love bouncing on a trampoline? A study says that an hour-long session on the trampoline can burn up to 160 calories and celebrities swear by this fun workout. While the workout doesn’t just consist of randomly bouncing around, the moves – such as the basic bounce, trampoline prances and trampoline squats – are fairly simple and can be practised effectively by beginners too. This workout is low-impact, and kinder on the knees and joints.
Stand-up Paddle Boarding
We’re so glad that Stand-up Paddle Boarding (SUP) is now more than just a resort activity. There are classes around the world and trips being held for stand-up paddleboarding. When paddling above a light level of exertion, SUP is said to be a great core workout as it involves maintaining your balance on the bobbing water surface. To amp up the intensity of your workout, you could also try balancing-act crunches, squats and yoga to further engage that core.
Hiking
Hiking is one of those activities that never gets old. Finding a trail and challenging yourself to scale through cliffs, crevices and climbs is one of the best ways to get a workout while also getting a chance to spend some time outdoors with nature. The fresh air is good for you, but also choosing a challenging trail will work different sets of muscles, keep your heart rate up and have you feeling that burn in your legs.
Active Vacationing
If you’ve got a vacation coming up, can we interest you in active vacationing? We’re talking mountain climbing packages, cycling tours, kayaking and skiing! Active vacationing has several benefits – it takes you out of your ordinary routine, keeps you sharp, leaves you stimulated, and challenges your body. Not only do you enjoy a serious dose of adrenaline when active vacationing, but you also get the best of both worlds – a holiday and a way to remain fit without having to hit the gym.
Dance Workouts
Whether you like to shake a leg at a hip-hop class, Zumba your way around, or get your shimmy on at a salsa session, dance workouts are fun and refreshing and they’re the best way to keep the party going! You can literally dance your troubles away! With particular moves created to target different sets of muscles, dance sessions are effective full-body workouts. You can also switch up intensities in your exercise routine depending on the need of the day and how your body is feeling. If you’re not comfortable attending dance sessions, we suggest turning up the music in your room and getting your groove on. Not to mention the many free resources and dance workout videos you can follow on the internet.
Partner Up
No matter what kind of workout you enjoy, partnering up with a friend, spouse or sibling will make it that much more fun. Not only will sharing your workouts with another help keep you accountable and ensure you workout as often as you would like to, but it will also give you a chance to challenge each other during the course of exercising which will up the fun quotient considerably!