Can’t get to the gym? Hate going to the gym anyway? From trampolining and pole dancing to breathing and ballet, get in shape with these alternatives.
7 Expert-Backed Ways to Get Fit for People Who Don’t Like Working Out
Throughout lockdown, I’ve found myself stuck in conversations with friends where we all lament the loss of gyms. But, in reality, I don’t lament the loss of gyms—because I don’t like gyms at all. In fact, I loathe all forms of exercise: spin class. Pilates. Hot yoga. Cold yoga. Yoga at any temperature. HIIT. Whether it’s because I’m lazy, or I get bored easily, or I’m allergic to working out in front of other people, there’s something about an organized gym class or a big, high-pressure fitness institution that just doesn’t agree with me. And I’m not alone.
“The main reason people fail when they start exercise is that they do something that they are told is good for them, rather than something they can sustain and build upon,” says personal trainer Michael Bennett.
Thankfully, however, there are alternative ways of getting fit that don’t involve breaking a sweat in public or having someone shout at you over a megaphone. In fact, according to Bennett, there are health benefits to almost all physical activities. The key to any activity, though, is volume (how long you practice) and consistency (how regularly you do it). “It might not be fashionable, but consistency is the dreaded word no one wants to hear when it comes to training. Hence why it's important to do an activity that you enjoy.”
So, what are those enjoyable, COVID-safe activities you can do from the comfort of your own home? From trampolining and pole dancing to breathing (yes!), here are seven expert-approved ways to get fit for those of us who don’t like exercise.
1. Pole dancing
Make like Lil Nas X and dance for the devil because pole dancing is huge right now. Not only is it incredibly empowering for both men and women, but it’s also a great way of building up core and upper-body strength. FKA twigs and Jennifer Lawrence are also fans. So, order yourself an at-home pole dancing kit now (it’s not as expensive as you might think) and sign up for some free classes. High heels optional. For maximum effect, Bennett recommends a 30-minute session, twice a week.
2. Trampolining
This story originally appeared on: Vogue - Author:Tish Weinstock
