Ten Fun Exercise Activities You Should Try

Okay, I don’t think I’ll be going out on a limb when making the assumption that you know the importance of exercise and physical fitness, right? Unless you are genuinely unable to, you know you should be getting some sort of exercise. If you have been following us for a while, you also know of all the health benefits that come with a more active lifestyle.

With that in mind, perhaps you have even tried to go to the gym, but found it wasn’t quite for you. Hopefully, you didn’t end up caving in to the temptation to just sit in front of the TV, curl up with a good book, or spend a little extra time at your computer. Ideally, you would have checked out and ordered the Granite Fitness Solution. If not, now is the best time to do so.

On that note, not all exercise needs to be vigorous, or at least not to start with. Knowing our fan base demographics, we are aware that some of you still have some way to go. And the grape vine has also told me that some of you are losing momentum. Our advice is to start with simpler activities, then get back on the Granite Fitness bandwagon. Here are a few ideas to get you moving to begin with:

One: Gardening

We start with a simple activity. When the weather is nice, just get out there and do some gardening. Or you could start a little vegetable garden, trim some hedges, cut the grass, or plant a tree. You get the idea. Just get out there, enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, and play in the dirt. Yes, this actually counts as exercise, albeit not being vigorous.

Two: Walk With Music

If the weather is good, you may choose to take a walk. I know that for me personally, a walk works wonders. What if you are bored? Well, listen to music or an audio book. Keeping your mind on something else will make the time fly by and you’ll get some extra fun out of your walk.

Three: Walk with a Friend

Still think it’s boring? Invite a friend to come along. I’ve had some of the best conversations while on a walk with a mate. Getting to chat with a friend makes the time fly and before you know it you’ve been walking for an hour. Try it!

Four: Take A Hike

No, I’m not chasing you away from our blog. I meant a literal hike. Look for some hiking trails in your area and go for a hike. This could be a fun activity for you and a friend, or take the entire family along. Start with some easy trails and work yourself up to some longer or steeper trails.

Five: Go for a Bike Ride

Even people like me who love walking need a bit of variety from time to time. For those who hate walking, a bike ride might be the ideal alternative. For a start, you can ride through your neighbourhood in the evenings. Later on, as your fitness develops, you can plan a longer trip for the weekend.

Six: Swim

Now I have to admit that I’m not a fan of the water that much. Yes, I know, it’s like treason being from Australia and not enjoying swimming. Truth be told, swimming makes for some great exercise. It is low impact and easy on your joints, which is the best part. Start by swimming a few laps, or play in the pool with your kids.

Seven: Dance Lessons

Dancing will give you quite the workout. Think about all your options here. You can pick from anything from Ball Room Dancing, to Line Dancing, to Latin etc. Pick something that sounds fun to you and go for it! There’s bound to be something you like.

Eight: Dance Privately

Feeling a bit self-conscious? Well, no one has to see you dance. Instead, do so when doing the household chores. While you’re dusting, putting up dishes, straightening up the kids’ rooms, or after you’ve been sitting around for too long, just play some of your favourite upbeat music and dance around in the house. Not only will you get your heart rate up, but you’ll also have more fun doing some of those chores.

Nine: Yoga or Pilates Class

Consider going to a yoga or pilates class. Both of these workouts are pretty low impact and won’t leave you sweaty and sore (mostly). You may also enjoy meeting some new people in the class. It is a nice alternative to the mainstream too!

Ten: Chase Your Kids

This is really going back to basics. You’d be surprised at how much of a work out you’ll get playing catch with your kids. Time will fly while you are having fun and your children will enjoy the extra time with you. Just get out there and play.

How do these ideas sound? Much easier than a gym routine, isn’t it? Go ahead, pick one or two of the activities and get moving. I’m sure you’ll find something you enjoy, so you’ll stick with it. Get out there and get moving today. And once you work your way to a certain amount of fitness, come back and get the Granite Fitness Solution.

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Also published on Medium.