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20 Mar 2011

Five gym-free fitness ideas for 2011

March 20, 2011 Category: Health Posted by:

ARA

 

Fitness should be fun and affordable. It should not be boring, time-consuming or costly. Make your exercise routine a bit more exciting this year with some fitness activities you can do without an expensive gym membership.

 

1. Sports hoop your way to slimmer shape

The thought of hula hoops probably conjures memories from your childhood, but the fact is hula hooping is a great fitness activity. Sports Hoops are large, weighted fitness hoops that adults use to tone and lose weight. These affordable hoops are easy and fun to use, and can help you lose weight.

If you’re a certified personal trainer looking for something new and exciting for your clients, consider attending a certified trainer program where you’ll learn the knowledge and tools to facilitate your own fitness hoop class and instruct personal training sessions.

 

2. Try a new activity you’ve never done before

There’s no better way to get your blood pumping and your body moving than trying something you’ve never done before. Always wondered what it’s like to rock climb? Sign up for a class, or see if your local sports store has a free rock climbing wall. How about trying ice skating, surfing or even acrobatics? If a new activity is a little intimidating, you may not want to do it alone. Ask a friend to do it with you and you’re sure to get a great workout and a wonderful memory.

 

3. Join a walking or running group

Walking and running are great physical activities that burn calories and tone the body. Discover the parks and neighborhoods around you by planning regular walks. Consider finding a walk/run buddy to keep you motivated. Or, look online to find walking and running groups that plan regular outings and offer a supportive, team environment.

 

4. Join a sport

Remember how much fun it was to play sports growing up? Adult teams can be just as fun, providing great exercise and camaraderie. Does your work or church group have a softball team? Maybe your friends like to bowl and you could form a bowling team. From broom ball, tennis, golf and more, team sports keep the spirit of healthy, friendly competition alive.

 

5. Visit your library and request workout DVDs

The library is a great community resource and it can also help keep you in shape. Because checking out books and DVDs is absolutely free, the library is the perfect place to research new types of exercise to spice up your normal routine. Try searching for Pilates, yoga and aerobic DVDs. You likely can request them to be sent to your preferred pickup location too. Some books and DVDs are geared toward specific age groups, so teens, adults and even seniors can find appropriate workout inspiration.

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