5 Best Alternatives to a Gym Membership

Before you ask; no, going to the gym is not the only way stay fit. In fact, there are far better ways to staying fit, contrary to what your gym-going friends might say. These methods are cheaper, more convenient, and downright more fun. So if you don’t want to be a gym-going sheep, but don’t want to become couch potato playing casino games at any of the Nektan sites all day, here are 5 alternatives to a gym membership.

1. Running

You probably saw this one coming, but running is hands-down the best alternative to working out at a gym. It’s not just good for your physical health, but it also works wonders for your mental health. And it demands barely anything. All you need is a pair of shoes and the will to start running. You can run (almost) anywhere, you can run early in the morning or late in the evening, and, as long as you’re having fun, don’t need any expensive gadgets.

You can run while listening to music or podcasts or keep your mind clear and take a quiet run. You can even do both on a single run. Finally, you can run for a race, or you can run for fun. Running can be liberating and extremely beneficial to your health.

2. Swimming

Swimming is probably the fastest way you can get some exercise. It burns calories without damaging your joints and putting you in any kind of risk. It’s also a great option for people who are recovering from an injury. It’s convenient for people of all ages and sizes.

Some of the benefits of swimming include improved cardiovascular health and increased upper and lower body strength. It helps in strengthening your joints and bones over time. You can find community pools everywhere; you don’t need Olympic-sized pools for a few laps. In the water. Alternatively, you can also try aqua aerobics, a swimming cardio workout that’s low-impact and fun.

3. Cycling

Yes, your bike is a great way of getting from one place to another without costs and environmental pollution. But there’s another reason you should cycle more — it’s a great tool to keep your fit and healthy.

Cycling gives your muscles a great workout while increasing cardiovascular health, stamina, strength, blood circulation, and overall fitness. And since you get to control the intensity and pace, it’s a win-win.

4. Hiking

Probably the most fun way you can work out is by hiking. You get to see stunning sceneries and locations while losing weight doing it. And while it may be difficult to go hiking if you live in an urban area, it’s advised to take it on whenever you get the opportunity.

Hiking gives you health benefits like losing calories (an average man of 85 kg loses 517 calories after an hour of hiking) and improving cardio. Top it off with the benefit of killing your stress and making you relaxed and hiking becomes an exciting alternative to working out at the gym.

5. Zumba

If you don’t know, Zumba is a Latin-inspired dance that doubles as a high-energy workout. It alternates between high and low-impact dance moves that are designed to boost your cardio endurance and increase your heart rate. The exercise combines dance moves with aerobics and targets arms, legs, glutes, back, and your core. It’ll help you improve your flexibility and increase your overall body strength.

An alternative to the alternative to the gym is plain dancing. While it may not be as fancy as Zumba, it’s still a great form of exercise. Apart from the obvious physical health benefits, dancing tends to make you more focused and disciplined. In addition, you’ll get to meet a lot of new, fun people.