Whether you’re a beginning exercise enthusiast looking for ways to stay inspired or a more seasoned fitness fanatic, these fun workouts can add variety to a lack-luster routine. And what could make working out more fun than hearkening back to a time when “working out” was called playing – and guess what? You did it every day. And you liked it. These five ways to workout emphasize the fun and play parts of exercise, the childhood nostalgia parts. The more endorphins that flow during your workout, the more likely you are to return and give it another go, and this sense of nostalgia is perfect for that. It’s time to play all over again.
1. Jumping rope
If you’re into a more sophisticated workout, then this jump rope might do the trick. This rope, however, could really get you in the spirit to chant “Cinderella, dressed in yella.” Jumping rope to your favorite music is a great place to start, but you might also try a jump rope workout.
2. Hula hooping
Never underestimate the power of a good hula hoop. A few minutes into a hula and your abs will get a real treat. And don’t stop there – remember how fun it was to keep it spinning on your arms, your neck, and maybe even your foot? If you’re a beginner, try this read-along hula hoop workout or enjoy a video workout.
3. Playing ball
Balls come in all shapes, sizes, and weights, and the list of activities you can do with them is a long one. If you’re not ready to venture into a sport, try just bouncing or throwing a ball against a wall or back and forth with a friend. Invest in a sturdy exercise ball and take a ride across the living room on your tummy. Or, if you’re not up for that, try a simple exercise ball workout like this one.
4. Body-weight challenge
Your body is quite possibly the best piece of workout equipment you will ever own. Challenge it! You may not feel confident in your hand-stand and cartwheel skills these days, but a workout that challenges your body in a similar way could inspire further fun workouts. Try this series of at-home exercises from Self Magazine – all you need is your rockin’ bod and a blank wall.
5. Dancing
Every kid loves to groove to a good beat, and with the right music, you might find yourself enjoying movement in the same way. Choose music that you enjoy, whether it is Top 40 hits, classical, big band, jazz, rap, or country. The more you enjoy the music, the more likely you are to want to get up and move. And don’t let the word “dance” scare you. Even if you have no dancing background, you can still move to a beat and find the rhythm that’s right for you. Check out this instructional video for a few simple dance moves if you’re not sure where to start! And if you’re ready for a more advanced workout, try this half-hour cardio dance workout.
feature image via BHG.com
Kayla Lilly is a photographer, writer, wife, and mama making a house a home in eastern Idaho. She met her mister while working at an amusement park and married him a year later after deciding there was no way to live without him. The amusement has continued as they’ve added three kids and a passel of pets to their lives while finishing college and starting a photography business. Drawing inspiration from the whirlwinds of marriage, parenthood, and the media, Kayla blogs at www.utterlyinexperienced.blogspot.com, and spends the rest of her time chasing chickens, organizing junk drawers, diapering toddlers, and photographing everyone willing to step in front of her lens.
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