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10 Fun Ways to Stay Fit Without Hitting the Gym

Whether you struggle to find time to hit the gym or simply lack motivation, there are plenty of fun work-out alternatives you can choose from, ranging from high-intensity cardio routines to no-equipment workouts to help you reach your fitness goals.

1. Warm Up with Surya Namaskar
   This age-old Yoga routine is a set of 12 powerful asanas that make you stretch your whole body, helping you build core strength and flexibility. It is a quick warm-up routine you can easily learn!  
2. Exercise in the Kitchen
   Find cooking time-consuming? Do a quick kitchen routine while your food gets ready. Get started with balancing yourself on one foot; perform neck and shoulder rotations; do a set each of arm-circles, leg-raises, squats, and wall sit-ups; finally, spot-march for a few minutes. Now, pat yourself on the back, and get ready to relish your meal!
3. Walk Whenever Possible
   Walking is undoubtedly the most effective low-impact exercise with numerous benefits—it can help you maintain weight, reduce cardiovascular risks, and regularize blood glucose levels. Walk whenever possible—get off a few blocks before your destination, move while attending a phone call, organize walking meetings, or simply walk your dog. Even a 15-minute brisk walk can boost your energy levels.
4. Sign Up for a Dance Class
   Consider enrolling for a class to learn Zumba, Bhangra, or contemporary styles. These innovative dance forms will help build muscle strength and elevate the heart rate, while the peppy music will soothe your mind.
5. Go for a Swim
   Swimming is a power-packed activity that helps you build muscular strength and endurance, as you move against the resistance of water. It increases flexibility and is also meditative. The next time you wish to unwind from work stress, consider going for a swim!  
6. Play a Sport
   It is never too late to learn something new! Tennis, basketball, badminton, or football—pick a sport that spells “fun” for you. It will help you build your stamina and skills, get in shape, and socialize. How is that about exercising without feeling overwhelmed?
7. Jump the Rope
   Remember the jumping rope challenges you took up as a kid? With this fun activity, you can work out your upper and lower body and quickly burn calories. Aim for 3 sets of 50-200 reps thrice a week. Are you up for this challenge?
8. Go for a Run
   To get the benefits of physical activities instantly, go for a run! Running in a nearby park is easier than it sounds; just wake up on time. It is the best way to maintain cardiovascular health and keep anxiety and depression at bay.
9. Bike in the Neighborhood
   Cycling is a low-impact aerobics and cardiovascular activity that also keeps obesity and diabetes under control. A 15-minute ride can give your muscles an intensive workout while enhancing your stamina.
10. Learn Martial Arts
    Learning a self-defense technique such as Karate, Tae kwon do, Judo, or Kung Fu will not only boost your self-confidence and strength, but it will also help you attain a good body posture, flexibility, and a disciplined lifestyle.

Go ahead, try one or more of these suggestions to spice up your workout routine.