Exercise can be fun – Try these unique exercises!

Exercise can be fun. Really? When I think of exercise I often think of the gym or back to my school days. I hated doing cross country, gym skirts, and having to get changed in front of loads of others.

Also, I didn’t exercise during my weight loss journey because when I started any form of exercise I felt self-conscious. I didn’t enjoy it so I decided exercise wasn’t for me.

As my regular readers will know, I then did start running. I enjoyed that a lot however due to illness and weight gain things changed.

At the moment, I am not comfortable running either! I have, however, considered Zumba, maybe via Zoom or YouTube videos, to avoid having to see anyone!

Choosing exercise

This got me thinking about exercise and if it can be fun. I started investigating and I am going to try out some new forms of exercise one day.

I thought I would share with you some exercises and sports that you may discover you enjoy. Maybe this will help before, like me, being quick to assume all activity is embarrassing and hard work!

Remember, all the advice is to exercise little and often.

I asked on my Facebook page what the first thing you think is when you hear the word exercise. Whilst some of the comments were positive, the majority were negative.

Many echoed how they have felt in the past about exercise. This is why I am determined to investigate different forms of exercise.

I am hoping to see if I can find something I could enjoy, other than running. Remember even a walk with the dog can be exercised if you really put your effort in.

Rebecca said, “I won’t be able to do it properly”. Joann’s response was “hard work”, and poor Donna said, “Hate it, too embarrassed to exercise”.

I can completely understand these feelings and have thought about all these and more for some time too. Hopefully, upon reading this post some of you will find exercises you might enjoy.

Why do many people hate exercise?

We all know exercise is good for our health, but despite this knowledge, many people still dislike exercising. In fact, some even dread it! But have you ever stopped to wonder why? Here are some of the common reasons behind this phenomenon.

Exercise feels like a chore – One of the biggest reasons people hate exercise is that it can feel like a chore. We live in a society where we’re constantly on the go, trying to tick things off our to-do lists. Exercise can feel like just another thing we have to do, and that can make it feel like a burden. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If we reframe our mindset and view exercise as an opportunity to improve our health and well-being, it can become something we actually enjoy.

Lack of motivation – Another common reason people hate exercise is that they lack the motivation to do it. This can be because they’re not seeing results fast enough or because they don’t have a specific goal in mind. The key to staying motivated is to set realistic goals and track your progress. This will help you see the progress you’re making and keep you motivated to continue.

Fear of judgment – Some people avoid exercise because they fear being judged by others. They may feel self-conscious about their bodies, worry they’re not fit enough, or that they don’t know what they’re doing. But the truth is, nobody is watching you as closely as you think they are. Most people at the gym are too focused on their own workouts to pay attention to anyone else.

Lack of time – Many people lead busy lives, and finding time to exercise can be a challenge. This can make exercise feel like something that’s just not feasible. But the truth is, even small amounts of exercise can make a big difference. You don’t need to spend hours at the gym every day to see results. Even just 30 minutes of exercise a few times a week can have a positive impact on your health.

Lack of enjoyment – Finally, some people simply don’t enjoy exercise. They may have tried various types of workouts, and none of them have appealed to them. But the good news is, there are so many different types of exercise out there that there’s something for everyone. Don’t be afraid to try new things until you find something you enjoy.

There are many reasons why people hate exercise, but most of them can be overcome. By changing our mindset, setting realistic goals, and finding little ways to incorporate exercise into our busy lives, we can learn to love the way exercise makes us feel. So, get out there and find an exercise routine that works for you! Your body and mind will thank you for it.

Exercise can be fun – check these out

Aerial Hoop

This exciting workout incorporates dance, strength training, and acrobatics all into one beautiful routine. The aerial hoop, also known as a lyra, is suspended in the air and allows you to perform a variety of poses and moves that will challenge your body in new ways. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a total beginner, aerial hoop exercise is a fun and effective way to build strength, increase flexibility, and improve your overall fitness. Plus, it’s just plain cool to be able to spin and flip in the air like a pro!

This picture will explain it better that any words can!

Pole Fitness

When I think of this, I think of pole dancing and seedy clubs with leering old men. However, actually, it looks like such a great form of exercise and such fun. It has made me rather tempted to give it a try! I am not sure my balance would be good enough!

Pole fitness combines strength training, cardio, and dance into a unique and exciting workout. It’s not just about spinning around a pole – it requires full-body engagement and a lot of core strength. With practice, you’ll be able to achieve impressive moves like inversions, climbs, and leg hangs. Not only will you be building strength and endurance, you’ll also be improving flexibility and coordination.

Aerial Silks

This is another exercise which involves being up off the floor. I am not so sure about this. It looks scary. It does look so fun all the same, so maybe something that is worth a try!

If you’re looking for a workout that’s both graceful and challenging, aerial silks could be just what you need. Also known as aerial fabric, this exercise involves performers hanging from long pieces of draped silk while they perform various acrobatic moves. It’s not just about looking cool, either- aerial silks require significant strength and flexibility, making them great for building core muscles and improving overall fitness. Plus, it’s just plain fun- who wouldn’t want to feel like a circus performer during their workout?

Hypopressive Exercise

Hypopressive exercise is a type of low-pressure workout that emphasizes breathing techniques and specific postures to engage the core muscles. It’s a great way to strengthen your pelvic floor, tone your abs, and improve your posture. Unlike traditional exercises that require a lot of repetitions and can put unnecessary pressure on your body, hypopressive exercise is gentle yet effective. It’s also a great option for people recovering from childbirth or dealing with bladder or bowel incontinence.

Powerhoop

Another hoop-related exercise. Lindsay-Rose says that if you can’t hula hoop but have no acute injuries to stop you then these classes will get you hula hooping in no time!

I am not sure she knows how uncoordinated I am and how many times I have tried hula hooping. That said, I am tempted to give it a go. I have wanted to be able to hula hoop since I was a little girl!

Hula Hooping

This classic childhood activity has become a popular exercise routine for adults in recent years. Hula hooping can provide a full-body workout, targeting muscles in your core, legs, and arms. Not only is it a great cardiovascular exercise, but it can also improve your balance and coordination. Plus, it’s an activity that can be done solo or with friends, making it a social and enjoyable fitness choice. So grab a hoop and start twirling your way to a healthier lifestyle.

Check out the best weighted hula hoops to buy if this is something for you.

Trampolining

Clare from Emmys Mummy says that when the kids are in bed, she goes on their trampoline. Trampolining is great for legs, bums, and tums!

So, if you have kids with a trampoline and don’t want to pay for exercise classes or buy equipment, then there you are. Have a bounce when they are in bed!

It probably wouldn’t be safe to do with the celebratory glass of wine after a hard day, though!

Spinning

Exercise bikes are a little boring, aren’t they? This popular exercise involves riding on a stationary bike and pedalling to music, all while an experienced instructor leads you through a series of different levels and intensities. But spinning is more than just a workout – it’s a community.

You’ll sweat it out alongside fellow enthusiasts who are all working toward the same goal: a healthier, happier life. Don’t be intimidated if you’re new to the scene – spinning is a perfect way to ease into exercise, and your instructor will be there every step of the way to help you get the most out of your workout. Give it a try and see for yourself why spinning has become a beloved fitness staple for so many people!

Dancing

When I think of dancing my first thoughts are a night out and dancing whilst drinking copious amounts of alcohol. I also think of children dancing in classes like ballet.

There are other types of dancing though so why not have a look? Exercise can be fun, like dancing, even without the alcohol, it seems!

HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training)

Kirsty loves this and says it is excellent for those who want something that doesn’t take long but is effective. Just the name of it makes it sound scary to me, but maybe it is just right for you.

HIIT involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by periods of rest or low-intensity exercise. Not only is it efficient, with workouts typically lasting around 30 minutes, but it also helps boost cardiovascular health, increase metabolism, and burn fat. Plus, with the variety of exercises that can be incorporated into a HIIT workout, it never gets boring.

Body Pump

This is a weighted barbell workout. It is set to current music and focuses on low weights and lots of reps to shape and tone the body. It sounds ok to me; I like the idea of repetition. I hate it when I finally grasp how to do something, and the move then changes! It makes me feel like an idiot!

Body Pump is a high-energy full-body workout designed to tone and strengthen muscles through the use of barbells and free weights. With uplifting music and motivating instructors, you’ll work up a sweat while targeting all major muscle groups. Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or new to the world of fitness, Body Pump offers a challenging but accessible workout that will leave you feeling strong and accomplished.

Body Combat

This is a martial arts-inspired workout. Again it is set to music, and each track focuses on specific martial arts.

Body Combat is a group fitness class inspired by martial arts, combining moves from karate, boxing, taekwondo, and more to strengthen your body and mind. Not only does it improve cardiovascular fitness and endurance, but it also enhances coordination and agility. Don’t worry if you’re new to martial arts – this class is designed for all fitness levels and adjustments can be made to accommodate any injuries or limitations.

Burlesque

My friend Emma does Burlesque. I was rather puzzled at first as I wasn’t really sure how this was a fitness activity.

After looking more into it, I can see it is. It is like stripping but without removing your clothes, seductive and fun dancing.

Emma describes it as “awe-inspiring, empowering and amazing”. She says it has literally changed her life and given her so much self-confidence. It also focuses on toning and building core strength.

Members are all shapes and sizes, so you don’t have to be a size 8; anyone can do it! They say exercise can be fun; this does look like immense fun!

Karate

Another blogger I chatted with, Kelly says that they like to exercise as a family. Karate classes work well for them as they can all do it together!

I love the idea of exercising as a family. However, I am not sure I would want Ben doing Karate he is strong enough as it is!

Worth considering for the future, though, as it does look fun! Exercise can be fun as a family, too, I guess.

Anti-Gravity Yoga

I guess the name of it says it all. I am not sure I would trust anything that calls itself “anti-gravity”. To me, that implies you need balance, something I really don’t have! Maybe it is for you, though?

If the thought of regular yoga practice seems a bit dull and uninspiring, you might want to try a workout that challenges your body in a completely different way. Enter anti-gravity yoga, a relatively recent yoga-inspired fitness craze that’s taking the world by storm.

Also known as aerial yoga, it involves performing traditional yoga poses while suspended from a hammock-like device that’s hung from the ceiling. By suspending your body in the air, anti-gravity yoga allows you to experience the benefits of yoga without putting pressure on your joints. Improved flexibility, balance, strength, and posture are just some of the benefits that you can expect to enjoy from this challenging and exciting workout.

Kickboxing

Getting fit whilst learning self-defence skills does sound very appealing, so I am rather tempted by this. I wonder how long it would be before I could do this because that does look pretty amazing!

Body Balance

This sounds quite relaxing though I guess it can’t be that relaxing or it wouldn’t be exercise! Lauren says that it is a class that combines yoga, pilates and tai chi.

The best bit is the relaxation and meditation at the end of the class! So maybe it is as relaxing as it sounds! Another one I may consider trying!

Zumba

This is a Latin American-inspired workout that is dancing to music. There is also Zumba Gold, which is usually chair-based Zumba.

It is aimed at older people or people with a disability or mobility problem. It’s ideal for anyone who just prefers to do this sitting-down version but still has a workout. 

Red Warrior

This unique program incorporates martial arts-inspired movements to not only build strength and endurance, but increase speed, flexibility, and coordination as well. With a community of friendly and supportive fellow warriors, you’ll feel motivated and encouraged to push yourself to new heights. And the best part? Red Warrior is suitable for all fitness levels, so whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, there’s a place for you in this dynamic and empowering program.

Red Warrior is taught in rounds, followed by short active recovery periods. It aims to challenge the mind and body simultaneously! You can work out the part of your body you choose; you are in control. It sounds fun and not as scary as the name suggests!