Who says you need a gym to get in great shape? The popularity of gyms is a relatively recent thing. There have always been people in great shape, with or without a gym membership. You can avoid the fees, travel time, and other inconveniences and get in shape without leaving your home or neighbourhood.
You don´t need a lot of equipment or time to dramatically change your body and fitness level. Even if you´re not thriving financially, you can still build a body you can be proud of. Your doctor will be thrilled too.
Use these strategies to get in the best shape of your life without stepping into a gym:
1) Exercise videos: Cable TV and internet have countless exercise programs you can watch and join. Whether you like aerobics, bootcamp style workouts, or Pilates, there are endless options for learning and following along. Most of the options are 100% free too.
2) Callisthenics: your body weight is all the resistance you need to get in great shape. Remember gym class back in the day? You would do push-ups, sit-ups, squats and other callisthenics. There are plenty of exercise examples online.
Set up a simple program and try to do just a little more each week. you make great progress if you´re consistent. A few hundred push-ups will do wonders for your upper body without needing a gym membership.
3) Yoga: Yoga is another option you can do in the comfort of your home or at the park. Again, there are many videos available on the topic. A morning routine, or anytime you want, of following along with a yoga program on TV or YouTube can change your life.
4) Jump rope: A jump rope is inexpensive and a great form of exercise. You can get your calves, heart and lungs in amazing shape. Take it easy at first, until you get back in the swing of things. Jumping rope is great for your coordination too. Jump rope with a friend for double the fun.
5) Run, walk, bike: Running and walking are free. If you already have a bike, biking is free too. These can be great cardiovascular exercises which enhance your health in numerous ways.
6) Find and follow a diet that works for you. Exercise is only part of the answer to getting in great shape. Your diet plays a huge part too. It can be challenging to find an eating plan that you enjoy that is also healthy. Keep working on it until you find something that clicks.
7) Drink water: Water is another important component of getting into good shape. Your body is mainly water, and your cells need water to work properly.
Calorie-free and healthy aren´t necessarily the same thing. There´s more and more evidence that artificial sweeteners contribute to overeating and type 2 diabetes. Your gut flora is also negatively impacted by artificial sweeteners. So, stick with water.
8) Hike: Hiking can be more challenging than walking. You can also spend some time in nature too. Hiking can also be a great group activity if you don´t feel like getting in shape alone. All you need is some suitable footwear for the terrain.
Gyms can be expensive and inconvenient. Avoid both of these disadvantages by working out at home. Get your diet under control too and you´ll be amazed by your progress.
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Here are a few of my favourite workouts on YouTube:
Lucy Wyndham-Read: Over 1000 free workouts on YouTube. She's very gently and explains everything very well.
Walk at Home: a fun walking workout at home.