5 Ways You Can Get Fit Without Going to the Gym

Keeping fit should be a top priority for everyone. How well we look after our body can have a profound impact on our general health and wellbeing. Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of some chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, type-2 diabetes, osteoarthritis and some cancers. It can also benefit your mental health by reducing stress and anxiety levels.

Traditionally when we think of exercise, we think of joining up to a gym. Whilst regular gym sessions provide many people with a suitable way of working out, signing up for an expensive gym membership is not always the best option for everyone. Time and money limitations can mean that a gym membership isn’t practical for many people.

So, what are your options if you want to get fit without stepping into a gym?

Go for a run

Taking to the outdoors for a run is an easy and inexpensive method for getting fit. Running can suit a wide variety of people and can be adapted to each individual’s fitness level. You can alter how fast you run or how far you go, depending on your ability, and all you need to get started are some comfortable clothes and trainers that properly support your feet.

Do the housework

Carrying out simple household tasks can get your heart rate pumping, burn calories and engage muscles. As highlighted by this helpful visual guide, just ten minutes of ironing or nine minutes of doing the laundry can see you burn 21 calories. Ten minutes spent dusting can burn 28 calories whilst getting the muscles in your arms, shoulders and back working.

Completing your housework is unlikely to cause a big impact on your general fitness level. However, for those short on time and unable to squeeze exercise into their routine it can be a positive encouragement to know that household chores can supplement activity levels.

Walk the dog

You can improve your fitness levels and your mood by taking your dog for a walk. Getting out in the fresh air, topping up your vitamin D levels and keeping your dog happy are all great reasons to head out for a walk.

Cycle to work

For many people the daily commute to and from work is frequently spent sitting in a car enduring back-to-back traffic jams. If you don’t take your own car and instead opt for public transport then you might find yourself tightly packed into a train carriage or bus, where personal space comes at a premium. However, one commuting option becoming more popular is cycling. This can burn an abundance of calories depending on how fast you go: just make sure you’re kitted out with a helmet and cycling road safety knowledge and you’re good to go.

Workout at home

Your home can become your own personal gym. You don’t need to spend money on expensive equipment, instead you can carry out exercises that use your own body weight. The internet is a useful place to start to look for an at-home fitness scheme. You can access numerous different types of workout and many of them are free of charge.

Remember to consult with your doctor before commencing a new fitness regime, and be aware that gradually increasing your exercise targets and expectations is the best way to stay motivated.