It’s a brand new year and we all have resolutions we would like to keep throughout the year. Many of us want to just be better people in the new year and others want to have a better financial situation. My other resolution is to continue to get healthier seeing as I’m getting older. I’m drinking more water, eating healthier, and even slowed down on alcohol. I’ve been wanting to go to the gym, but it’s too cold and just hate working out. Despite not caring about going to the gym and working out there are other solutions to this. If you’re like me and not a big fan of working out let me help you. Below are 6 ways to exercise for those that hate working out.
Go on Active Vacations
When we think about vacations, we tend to think about relaxation and just some downtime. You can go on a vacation where you can burn calories while having fun too. You can go to the mountains and do a little hiking. Maybe you’re someone that loves water and if so, white-water rafting can interest you. White-water rafting is fun, and you will be burning calories in the process. With it being winter now, maybe you can go on a ski trip. Either way, there are plenty of things to do on vacation to get healthier and have fun at the same time.
Take the Stairs When You Can
Skip the elevator whenever you get a chance. We’re not saying to walk up 20 flights of stairs, but if it’s a couple of floors that shouldn’t be a problem. You could improve your cholesterol and lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
Do Activities Outdoors When It’s Cold
Before you head out on an adventure while it’s cold make sure you’re warm enough. Studies show winter workouts might help you burn more brown fat. That’s a type of fat linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes. Low temps raise your odds of hypothermia and frostbite.
Virtual Reality
VR headsets have become increasingly popular, and it can be a great way to exercise. Boxing and dancing are just a pair of things you can do with your VR set. You can get your heart rate up with cycling. Studies show people who aren’t big on traditional workouts tend to think VR fitness is more fun. Speaking from experience, these are fun, and you will be breathing heavily when you’re finished.
Fitness Apps & Trackers
Whatever you’re trying to achieve you best believe there’s an app for that. If you want to train for a marathon or just want to do yoga there’s an app. Research shows using app-based walking or exercise programs often can boost your aerobic levels just as much as in-person sessions with a trainer. Studies also show people who use fitness apps are more likely to do something active during downtime compared to those who don’t. Years ago, Fitbit was popular, and it was one that everyone in my household had. Nowadays, we all wear Apple Watches, and they track our physical activity. Connect your fitness tracker or smartwatch to an exercise app to follow your progress.
Virtual Personal Trainers
VR headsets have become popular, but so have virtual personal trainers. All you need is an internet connection and a smartphone or computer. A virtual trainer can chat with you remotely. If you’re new to online trainers, do a little research to find which program might work for you. Or ask your local gym if they offer virtual private or group sessions. Once you get started, let your trainer know if the workout is too hard or too easy.
