Everyday more individuals are seeking to either lose weight, increase muscle mass or improve their cardiovascular system. The first thought that comes to mind is to simply join a gym or workout facility. However, if you are one who cringes to the idea of working out with 50 or so strangers at any given time, then there are great alternatives for you to accomplish your fitness goals within your comfort zone.
Although a workout facility offers advanced equipment and the opportunity to get out the house, many individuals, mostly women, are tired of the ‘gym atmosphere’ since nowadays it’s being used as a pick-up-joint or a place to hangout. Working out in a gym can also become unsettling, dry and boring as many are poorly managed and offer very little motivation as members are surrounded by dirty machines, filthy locker rooms, low energy, depressed spirits, and bad music. And for those on a tight budget, gym memberships range anywhere from $20 to $100 per month, per individual, and in today’s economy, people are seeking to stretch their dollars as far as possible.
The first important point to remember about getting fit is that you need to enjoy any workout you do. The second important point is that fitness can only be achieved through consistency; consistency can only be achieved through motivation; motivation can only be achieved through enjoying what you do—and below are 6 enjoyable gym alternatives to get you started.
Pilates
Pilates have been called the new ‘it’ workout simply because they are quite effective and provide your body a good workout without risks to injuries or sprains. In fact, Pilates are recommended for seniors and for those who suffer from back problems. The exercises are performed slowly with utmost concentration and focus on one’s breathing patterns. It’s a great way for new mothers to get in shape after child birth and for those eager to join a class that’s guaranteed to give you great results.
Boot Camps
Boot camps are challenging and test your stamina, endurance and overall fitness levels. Many personal training studios offer boot camps which are usually held for 3 weeks at a time throughout the year. These intense one hour workouts will trim your body, improve your strength and burn fat simultaneously at an accelerated rate. The workouts are not only fun, but provide exceptional results.
Muay Thai
Muay Thai not only teaches you the art of fighting, but also gets the body into excellent shape. Muay Thai specializes in the ‘Art of 8 Limbs’, you will learn everything you need to know about punches, kicks and knee strikes, while developing better flexibility, balance, concentration and strength. With Muay Thai, you get the best of both worlds—self defense and fitness.
Dance Classes
Dance classes are a great way to exercise while having lots of fun and even make new friends. The key is to ensure the dance moves work every part of your body so you will want a Bollywood dance class or an aerobics dance class where the word exercise is given a new meaning altogether.
Outdoor Exercise
One of the best exercises for the legs, buttocks and cardiovascular system is an early morning jog. Exercising in the early morning helps to keep you alert and energized during the day. If it’s difficult to exercise before going to work, then jogging in the afternoon or evening works just as well!
Exercise Tapes
Many people prefer working out in the privacy of their own homes, at their own pace. There are many fitness professionals who have put together great exercise tapes that provide unique aerobic and strength building techniques that will get you in tip-top shape in no time. Some of these include: Personal Training with Jackie, P90X Extreme, Jillian Michaels, Billy Blanks: Taebo and many more.
The best way to stay on top of your fitness goals is to ensure that you mix up your workouts and take on new challenges each time. Consistency is the key to results, but it must be fun to motivate you to keep it going.