Exercise doesn’t always have to be a chore, but sadly many of us feel it’s just another task we have to fit into our busy schedules. We all appreciate the benefits of daily movement – such as good physical health, mental clarity and reduced risk of serious health conditions – yet it is often the first thing to slide when life gets too much.
In an ideal world, we would exercise 5-6 times a week, but for many of us, this is just not realistic. In reality, only around one-fifth of Americans get their 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, suggesting that the majority of us just don’t enjoy getting fit.
When working out feels too much like work, it could be time to switch things up. Whether you exercise alone, workout with your partner or as a family, here are four fun ways to get moving this weekend.
Go Dancing
If you’re not the sporty type, why not go dancing instead? There are countless different styles of dance, such as ballroom, swing, tap, modern, salsa, folk and river dance, so there’s bound to be one that appeals to you. Plus, you don’t even need a partner to get started. Find out about local classes near you, put on your dancing shoes and get ready to burn some serious calories while having oodles of fun.
Play Golf
You may not realize it, but playing golf can burn up to 400 calories per hour. It is also a relaxing and meditative sport, so it great for all areas of physical and mental health. There are plenty of stunning St George Utah Golf Courses like the Red Rock Golf Trail, that will help you get your exercise while enjoying beautiful surroundings and socializing with other players.
Go Horse Riding
There is something both majestic and grounding about riding horseback, but it’s amazing how many of us have never done it. Horse riding at a running trot burns an average of 350 calories per hour (the same as a difficult spin class), so it’s a great way to fit in a cardio workout while having fun in the meantime. Horse riding also helps strengthen the core, tone muscles and improve balance and coordination. There is also evidence to suggest that spending time with horses can improve our emotional wellbeing – so it seems the benefits of equestrian life are practically endless.
Try Something New
It’s no use doing the same old workouts again and again. For one thing, you have a greater chance of keeping up with your regime if it’s something you actually enjoy, but your body will also become resistant to certain exercises after a while, so it’s important to mix things up. Try something different this weekend, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box: trapeze, air acrobatics, kickboxing and anti-gravity yoga are all exciting and just a little bit different, and each one will help you tone up, lose weight and feel good in your skin.