Staying active is tough, and, let’s face it, having to go to the gym and deal with the culture there doesn’t help. You don’t want a jam-packed gym to sidetrack your focus from your health and wellness. Keep reading for six suggestions to stay active without the gym membership.
Hiking and backpacking
Hiking might seem like a basic option, but hiking is a great workout. You likely aren’t far from multiple hiking trails, and you can make your workout as intense or easy as you want, depending on which trail you choose. Hiking gear is as simple as good hiking boots and tall socks, making it an easy workout to do when you’re traveling.
Should you decide to take your workout routine to the next level, consider a long-distance backpacking trip–complete with an overnight pit stop. Before embarking on the adventure ahead, you’ll need to stock up on backpacking trip must-haves like hiking boots, a sleeping bag/hammock, water bottles, stainless steel pots and pans, and the like.
Rock Climbing
If you’re looking for an exciting, full-body workout, you might want to try rock climbing. If you live in a rocky or mountainous area, it’ll be easy to find somewhere to rock climb with different intensities. Major metropolitan areas can also have rock climbing facilities to practice climbing in a controlled environment. Going to a facility also grants you the option of renting equipment, sparing you the costs of
Archery
If you’re looking for an upper-body workout, look no further than archery. This hobby demands strength from your arms, shoulders, and back. Bows come in different draw weights, which dictate how much effort it takes to draw them, so you can easily decide how much you can take on. Enjoy the workout and watch your aim improve over time.
Swimming
Whether you’re hitting the local beach or the swimming pool at the Y, swimming is a great full-body and cardio workout. If you struggle with the impact of other cardio exercises, swimming might be a good option for you. The buoyancy of water lifts weight off your joints, making it easier to go higher intensity.
Yoga
Yoga has something for everyone, from flexibility to strength training. You can enjoy yoga solo or in a group, at home, or local park. Yoga has the potential to be a full-body workout and a practice to ease your mind. Grab a pair of leggings, hit the mat, and see where this ancient Buddhist practice takes you.
Herping
If you like nature, this is a fun option for you. Herping is comparable to birdwatching, but your goal is to find reptiles like snakes and lizards. Conduct research on the reptiles known to inhabit your area (and the species that are safe to interact with). That way, you’ll feel prepared to engage with nature on the hunt. Remember, your aim isn’t to catch or interact with them in any way, just to spot and admire them.
Wrap-Up
This list isn’t exhaustive, but it’s a good starting point. Whether you’re looking for an intense full-body workout and you’re ready to hit the rocks, or you want to find your calm in Warrior Pose, there’s a way to stay active on your terms this year.
