Motivating yourself for a workout is no easy feat. Whether you’ve been working out for some time or you’re trying to get back into it, it can be hard to dig yourself out of that motivational slump. But here’s the thing: Working out doesn’t have to be brutal.
You can (and should) have fun with it! If you can’t find the motivation to hit the gym, explore some different ways to get exercise. Whether it’s playing at the jungle gym or running around with your dog, you can get your heart pumping while having fun.
All you need, otherwise, is maintaining a diet. Just like you’d only give your dog healthy dog treats, you should keep a clean diet to make the most of your workouts.
Here’s how to get in your best workouts while having fun:
- Go to a local jungle gym
Sometimes you need to let your inner kid out. Remember climbing on the monkey bars, seeing who could get across the fastest? Or when you and your friends would compete to see who could swing the highest on the swingset?
Get out to a local jungle gym and make the most of it. If you’re worried about bothering any families there with their kids, go during off-hours to work out in peace.
- Exercise with a friend
Sometimes, a stressful workout can be made light-hearted by inviting a friend to tag along. Whether it’s your friend whom you have soul-searching conversations with or the friend who has you doubled over in laughter, either can help get your mind off the activity at hand, making your workout a little more fun.
- Explore a local city
Walking is an undervalued form of exercise. It’s low stress on your joints and musculoskeletal system, good for heart health, and great for mental stimulation. Take some time to think, listen to a podcast, or sightsee by exploring a nearby city for the day. It’s a healthier way to explore, compared to taking an Uber, and you can do so much along the way — from stopping by cafes and restaurants throughout the day to window shopping and visiting historical sites.
- Hike with friends
A hike in the woods is good for the soul. But it is equally incredible for your lungs, heart, calves, quads, and more. Plan a weekend hike with some friends. A hike can be strenuous on its own, but doing it with friends will make it easy to keep pace without ever feeling overtired.
- Exercising with your new dog
If you’ve recently adopted a dog, you’re in luck. Research has shown that exercising with your dog can lead to improved heart health, lower blood pressure, and less anxiety. Better yet, it’s exceptionally fun for both you and your pet, providing a bonding experience that improves the health of both of you.
Make sure the two of you get your rest once you’re done. Get your dog some water, relax under a shaded tree, and give them dog chews as a well-deserved treat.
- Go for a calm bike ride
A workout doesn’t have to be painful and overly intense. It can be a relaxed sightseeing adventure. A Sunday bike ride can be an excellent way to physically condition and burn some calories, all while being easy on your body.
- Go out dancing
Sometimes you need to get out and cut a rug — or whatever the hip kids are saying nowadays. Going to a dancing class is an excellent way to get in a workout while having fun. Best of all, you can learn the basics to eventually go to a dancing event. Not only will you be able to meet and dance with new people, but you’ll break a sweat while letting the music move you.
- Join a rock climbing gym
Rock climbing has grown in popularity in recent years, and we can see why. It’s low stress on the body while being incredible for strength and conditioning. Whether you meet up with friends or go climbing with strangers, you can get in a great workout while climbing to new heights.
- Play golf
You might not think of it, but golf can be a great workout. But here’s the catch: ditch the golf cart. An 18-hole golf course can lead to walking anywhere from three to six miles. Add carrying a bag over your back and using your core and trunk muscles to drive, hit, pitch, and putt, and, well, you’ve got an exceptional workout for the day.
- Go swimming
One of the most recommended low-stress exercises is swimming. We know why. Whether you go to a local swimming pool and run laps or go out for a swim in a nearby pond or ocean, you can get in a great workout that feels lighthearted. Take a beach day with friends and swim out every so often between tanning on the shoreline.
- Go bowling
We all know why Wii Sports Bowling was as popular as it was. Sold as part of a workout package, people love bowling for the skill and chance that goes into the game. Whether you’re doing it at home with the assistance of a Nintendo Wii or go to a local bowling alley, you can bowl with some friends and get your body in motion. Try and get some spin in your rolls, too.
- Some people need a goal
If you find that your workouts don’t feel fun, you might just need a goal. Many people find it hard to remain motivated due to seeing their workouts, and results, as mediocre. Part of the reason is that people do not have a goal when getting into fitness. Maybe they signed up for a gym membership and they go and try out the equipment, but they never feel satisfied after a workout.
If you’ve ever felt this way, you need to set a goal for yourself. Set a schedule, plan ahead, and aim for personal feats. Reaching your goals will feel as fun as anything else because the work will finally seem worth it.
