by Caitlin H,
Apr 10, 2023
Exercising can sometimes feel intimidating, especially when you go to a gym and see what looks like elite athletes pumping weights or pounding out mile after mile on the treadmill.
It might even look like some exclusive club, an in-crowd that you will never be a part of. And it may also be true that you simply don’t enjoy it, that the thought of spending hours of your free time pouring sweat and being miserable at a gym is about as appealing to you as cleaning a public restroom.
It’s okay. We get it. And you are certainly not alone. Thankfully, exercising can take place anywhere, anytime, and in all sorts of fun formats.
We rounded up 10 fun ways to exercise that don’t require a gym membership, activities that don’t even feel like exercising, and that you can look forward to doing.
1) Bowling
Bowling is the perfect sport for all ages and any fitness level. It’s a ton of fun, easy to do, and can burn anywhere from 150-300 calories per hour! If you do it a few times and find you love it, join a league to make new friends and make it a consistent part of your schedule.
2) Standup Paddle Boarding
Warm weather and a body of water are all you need to try this activity, an excellent way to build core strength and improve balance. You can burn 330-460 calories per hour doing this sport, and there’s nothing like taking in the view from the water while standing on the board.
3) Birding
You’ve probably heard that you should walk or hike a thousand times before. If that doesn’t do it for you, try birding! Birding involves watching and identifying birds for recreation or science. You can download an app to identify birds or make it into a fun game with friends or family by seeing who can spot the most birds!
4) Golf
Golf is an excellent activity if you’re looking for something challenging and rewarding. You can work towards beating your previous record each time you play. Plus, you’ll walk an average of 3-5 miles per game, meaning you can burn many calories without even thinking about it!
5) Roller Skating or Rollerblading
Cruising around a park or ring on roller skates or blades can be quite an exhilarating experience. After all, the wind is in your hair, you’re moving quickly, and there’s a good chance you’ll have a big smile on your face the entire time. Plus, you’ll burn 300-550 calories an hour without even thinking about it!
6) Active Video Games
Virtual and augmented reality games are more accessible than ever. These exciting video games involve immersive experiences that make you feel like you’re there from the safety and comfort of your own living room. Search for a game that appeals to you on your computer or phone and give it a try. You may quickly find you’re doing it every day, easily burning the calories that accompany the movement!
7) Sledding
If you live in an area that gets snow, why not take a friend or family member and go sledding? The rush of chilly air on your face as you fly down the hill is truly exhilarating. And every time you hike back up that hill to do it again, you’re burning 400-800 calories an hour!
8) Dance Parties
Music lovers, this one’s for you! If you often have music playing at home or in the car, mix in a nightly dance party to some of your favorite tunes! Let loose as you dance around the house or headbang in the car. Dancing is a ton of fun and an excellent form of exercise that can burn anywhere from 300-800 calories an hour.
9) Batting Cages
Believe it or not, swinging a bat is a vigorous and challenging exercise. You’ll move around and engage your muscles while trying to hit the ball. Swing and hit or swing and miss. It doesn’t matter!
10) Swimming
There’s a reason pools are so popular. Science shows our brains release endorphins, the chemical responsible for creating happiness when we’re in the water. Whether you’re doing laps or just playing with the kids, all that movement is great for building your cardiovascular system and endurance.
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Author: Caitlin H
Diet-to-Go Community Manager
Caitlin is the Diet-to-Go community manager and an avid runner. She is passionate about engaging with others online and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. She believes moderation is key, and people will have the most weight loss success if they engage in common-sense healthy eating and fitness.
