I’ve stopped going to the gym. I used to find it enjoyable, working out on the treadmill and appreciating the other beautiful men and women running alongside me. But one day, it dawned on me that, there’s nothing quite as unhealthy as being cooped up in an air conditioned, all sweat, enclosed atmosphere, sharing treadmills and bench presses, while watching inane television soap operas. So, I decided to skip the gym in favor of exercising at home or outdoors.
Exercising outside the gym does not necessarily mean boring or…boring. There are a variety of ways to add fun to the mix. Try going jogging with a buddy. Not only will you have someone to pace you, but you’ll get that extra energy to do the final 100 meters. Or, join an outdoor walking or jogging group. Most communities have these set up and they are easy and fun to join. Want to try something new? You can always take up cycling, swimming or hiking. How about mountain climbing, surfing or skiing? The outdoors offer a variety of exercises depending on where you live and the level of thrill you seek. If you find that you’re not motivated to don those sneakers unless you pay for it, then set up an ‘exercise box’ and drop in $5 each time you exercise. Use that money to treat yourself to something nice when you finish 10 sessions.
If you are going to watch TV while you exercise, then why not use the opportunity to learn something new? Ever wanted to try yoga or Pilates? How about kick boxing or belly dancing. If you’re new to any exercise, always make sure you start at the beginner’s skill level and always with a doctor’s approval.
So, stop that gym membership (put the money into your ‘exercise box’), don a pair of sneakers and head outdoors!
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