Alternative Ways to Stay Fit if the Gym Just isn’t Your Thing

With all of the responsibilities we have to juggle, it can be difficult to prioritize our health, even though it is the most important thing. This is something I have struggled with myself. It’s so easy to let our health slip through the cracks. I mean who can resist a giant plate of nachos from Freebirds or getting an extra hour of sleep instead of going on that morning run?

In trying to improve my overall health and fitness, I discovered how much I really hate going to the gym. I mean, you spend an hour or two running on a moving belt or doing repetitive lifting motions on machines. Obviously, going to the gym works great for a lot of people; I’m just not one of them and I’m sure I’m not alone.

For me, the best way to stay motivated to exercise is to make your exercise routines fun and different each time. I also prefer exercising in programs that are led by a coach or instructor to make sure you are pushing yourself and not falling too far behind. Here are some of the fitness programs I have participated in that are fast-paced, fun, and have incredible health and fitness benefits.

Spin Class

This exercise program is fast-paced, led by an instructor, and usually has a different routine each day. Spin classes at private gyms can be expensive, but the classes offered through the UCSB Recreation Center are much more affordable. I have taken a few classes through the rec cen and it has been a great way to get an intense cardio workout in just an hour. Spin classes have a great deal of fitness benefits. Women’s Health reported that the average person can burn up to 500 calories in one 40-minute spin class. This type of exercise is also low-impact so it can help prevent serious injuries. You may think it only trims fat in your legs and glutes but it really is a whole body workout. There are several routines that involve engaging your arms and abs in an effective way. So sign up for a class, listen to some music, and burn a ton of calories in a short 1-hour workout!

Boxing

This workout is my favorite for sure! I have been boxing for about a year now and it is by far the best workout program I’ve done. I box at the local boxing gym in Isla Vista, Duke’s Boxing and Fitness. The workouts usually consist of a warm-up, a sequence of rounds working on the punching bag, and ends with an intense core workout. Although boxing training has a multitude of benefits related to self-defense and stress, it is also an excellent workout. According to a Livestrong article, boxing training is an aerobic conditioning workout. It helps build your endurance and has the potential to improve sleep. Boxing can also promote fat loss. Livestrong reported that 30 minutes of intense boxing can burn up to 900 calories. Despite the fitness benefits, boxing can be incredibly fun. Most classes have a coach present to teach different techniques and combinations and will make sure you are meeting your fitness goals.

Recreational Activities

Another great way to stay fit is to sign up for the exercise sport classes that UCSB offers. They have everything from aerobic fitness to weight training classes. You can pick a class based on your goals. If you want to make sure to get more cardio into your fitness regime, you have the opportunity to sign up for the jogging fitness classes. Alternatively, if you’re just looking for a fun way to stay active you can sign up for a volleyball or basketball class. The best part of these classes is that they are free! You are also more motivated to attend in order to get a passing grade on your transcript.

Now that you know some extra ways to stay fit that doesn’t involve an elliptical or crowded workout rooms, I wish you luck on your fitness journey!