If you hate the gym or just hate exercise in general, it can be difficult to keep a regular exercise routine. With gyms still closed in the UK, you might be thinking about ways to improve your health and fitness post lockdown. But for now, many people have adapted to home workout routines and finding new ways to stay active at home. If you’re sick of workout videos and can’t stand the thought of doing Couch to 5k, then there are many alternative ways that you can stay active and healthy. Try something new or something you will find fun, as you are more likely to stick at activities that you find enjoyable.
- Take up skating and improve your skate skills
A recent Google survey by Slick Willie’s sought to find out the answer to: ‘Are People Exercising More Or Less During Lockdown?’. They found that 29% of respondents were exercising more whereas 31% were exercising less. Many people might be exercising less as exercise routines can easily get a bit boring sometimes. But if you hate running or hate doing push ups, why not do something you would enjoy instead? By shaking things up and going roller skating or skateboarding, it is quite easy to make exercise significantly more interesting. Not only is this kind of exercise great for keeping you active and healthy, but it can also make you feel happier, help you relax, and improve your balance.
- Get outdoors and go hiking
Hiking is another activity that has a lot of surprising benefits for the body. You will be able to spend time around nature while getting a great work out. Additionally, hiking has been found to boost moods, improve focus and clarity, and even improve overall happiness. There is nothing quite like reconnecting with nature and this is an activity that people of all ages can enjoy. Going outside often and getting some fresh air and sunshine is a great boost for both your mind and body. Taking the dog with you or going on a socially distanced hike with a friend can help you stay active.
- Break out your best dance moves
Maybe you’re on a Zoom call with your friends or you are just having a night in by yourself. Why not stick on some music and show off your dance moves? Dancing is a great way to boost your heart rate, get you active, and boost your self-esteem. As nightclubs and gym classes are closed at the moment, you can still enjoy dancing in the privacy of your own home. Stick on your favourite CD or radio station and get that body moving! Zumba is also a fun, fast-paced dance exercise that you can get involved in – just stick on Youtube and see which exciting Zumba videos you can do at home right now.
- Dust off your old Nintendo Wii
Whether it’s Just Dance or Wii Sports, there are a few video games on the Nintendo Wii that can keep you fit and active. On Wii Sports, you can keep active in your own living room by playing tennis, bowling, golf or baseball. You can compete against others at home or see how well you do yourself. Just Dance is also a fun video game that will get your heart pumping. While it’s not beneficial to sit and play video games all day, the benefit of these games is that you need to stand up and move about as you play them. As you play you will constantly be moving your body, which you wouldn’t necessarily be doing if you’re playing the Xbox or Playstation.