If you’re like many people, the idea of “getting fit” is right in there with winning the lottery — seemingly unattainable. You’ve thought about it, and maybe you even purchased an obligatory gym membership as part of your New Year’s resolution to get moving and incorporate exercise into your daily routine. But now – 4 months later – you’re bored and lost that motivation.
Well, there’s no better time than now to get excited about fitness again. Regular physical activity is good for everyone’s health — and people of all ages and body types can be physically active. Try these more unusual activities for a fitness recharge designed to keep you coming back for more. Note: It’s always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider first to make sure you’re cleared for takeoff.
And there are many reasons to feel great about yourself after any type of exercise. You’re helping control your weight, reducing risk of heart disease, managing blood sugar levels, minding your mental health, strengthening bones and muscles.
1. Trapeze
Actress and singer Zendaya did it in the film, “The Greatest Showman.” You may not fly through the air with the greatest of ease, at least not the first time, but if reaching new heights appeals to your adventurous self, take on the trapeze. No, don’t try this at home in the backyard, but search for a well-established trapeze school near you.
A trapeze workout can build your upper body strength and test your flexibility and coordination. Plus, your mood and self-esteem will get a bountiful boost when you conquer that initial “I can’t” and overcome your hesitation. Now you’re ready for more.
2. Aerial yoga
As long as we’re above ground, we had to mention this exercise because it’s so different. Circus hammocks pull you up and away to hang out as you work on yoga body positions and alignment. And no, you don’t start at 10 feet high; maybe just a few inches.
In 2016 the American Council on Exercise (ACE) completed a small study on aerial yoga that found it offered benefits akin to those you get from low to moderate intensity aerobic exercise. After a six-week program, participants experienced improvements in body weight, body-fat percentage and blood pressure.
3. Trampoline
Indoor trampoline facilities are popping up across America, and some gyms and boutique fitness studios offer small, individual trampoline classes for all ages. These low-impact workouts strengthen derriere, hamstrings and abs. Plus, you get a strong dose of balance training with every jump.
4. Dancing
A 2016 study in the Journal of Sport and Health Science concluded that an hour of cardio dancing could burn at least 400+ calories — and had fun! Dancing also helps coordination overall and is great for general toning.
5. Aqua cycling
There’s not an aqua cycling studio in every city, but if you’re visiting a major one such as Los Angeles or New York — or if you have your own pool — consider aquacycling or hydrospinning on a special bike. Fans swear by its super-low impact, since the human body consists of 60 percent water and your lower body and core are “surrounded.” It’s a full-body calorie-burner, up to 800 per hour, as the water actually supports your joints. You’ll also be using muscle groups that might not get used as much in a regular spin class.
Now the word “exercise” sounds better, right? Enjoy!
Samantha ClaytonOLY, ISSA-CPT – Vice President, Sports Performance and Fitness Education
Samantha Clayton serves as the vice president of Sports Performance and Fitness Education at Herbalife. She is also the Vice Chair of the Fitness Advisory Board. Clayton represented Great Britain at the 2000 Sydney Olympics in both the 200m and the 4x100m relay events. She is a certified personal trainer with specialty certifications in group fitness, youth fitness programming, senior fitness and athletic conditioning. Clayton has an associate degree in pharmaceutical science and studied chemistry at the University of Wolverhampton. She then went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in public health and a master’s in medical nutrition from American Public University and Arizona State University, respectively. As a mother of four, she enjoys cheering for her kids at their sporting activities. Her favorite Herbalife product is Herbalife24® Rebuild Strength.