The benefits of exercise on our physical and mental health are something we are reminded of every day. But for many people, the most challenging part of exercising is finding the motivation to set aside time each day to do it.
The good news is that there is no ‘right’ way to move your body. Whether you enjoy swimming, cycling, practicing yoga, or hitting the streets in your favorite gear from Australian skate brand Globe to try something completely new, physical exercise should be motivating, enjoyable, and keep you coming back for more.
Hiking
There are very few things better for low mood or poor mental health days than Mother Nature herself. Exploring local nature trails and popular hikes through breathtaking scenic landscapes is an excellent workout for both body and mind. Not only does it provide heart-healthy cardio movement, but it also contributes to better muscle strength, balance, and endurance.
Moreover, being out in nature will help to reduce stress levels, sharpen focus, and provide a healthy environment to clear your mind and regain perspective.
Trampoline Workouts
If you are looking to get a high-intensity workout in but struggle to get to the gym every day, consider investing in a mini trampoline (rebounder). Jumping on a rebounder is a high-energy but low-impact exercise that helps to improve balance, significantly contributes to stronger leg muscles, and increases coordination.
It is a fantastic indoor exercise activity that offers a heart-pumping cardio and endurance workout. Be sure to purchase a trampoline model designed to accommodate your weight to ensure your safety and to maintain the integrity of the machine.
Paddleboarding
Paddeboarding is a fun and engaging water-based activity that demands good balance and coordination in order to navigate the water while standing on the board. Additionally, the motion of paddling will not only strengthen your arms, shoulders, and back, but maintaining your balance while standing will also engage your core and leg muscles.
Alternatively, lovers of water sports can test their hand at kayaking. This fun activity will not only get you out into nature, but it will help to strengthen your shoulders, back, arms, and core muscles while simultaneously boosting aerobic fitness and improving your range of motion. Many lovers of the sport also report that the rhythmic motion of paddling can provide a meditative quality, supporting lower stress levels and a clearer mind.
Cycling
Cycling is a popular, joint-friendly exercise that activates major muscle groups in the body, increases stamina levels, and improves overall cardiovascular health. Whether you choose to ride outdoors on local roads, hit adrenaline-enducing mountain trails, or head to your local gym for a spin class, cycling is a fantastic low-intensity exercise that supports healthy joint mobility, coordination, and balance.
Before hitting the public roads and trails, ensure you properly understand any rules and regulations in place to keep you safe and protected, as well as reassess your diet to keep your body properly fueled.
Martial Arts & Kickboxing
Practicing martial arts and kickboxing has grown in popularity over recent years, and for good reason. These sports are not just about self-defense —they include high-intensity, strength-building exercises and drills that dramatically improve your physical and psychological health.
By regularly engaging in training, you can expect to see improvements in muscle tone, coordination, and flexibility, while also benefiting from the effects of lower stress levels, emotional regulation, and increased self-esteem. The perfectly balanced combination of controlled body movements and rapid bursts of power makes martial arts a brilliant full-body endurance exercise that teaches you valuable skills and knowledge.
Dancing
Regardless of the type of dancing you prefer, it is a superb way to significantly boost your cardiovascular health, flexibility, and motor coordination. From Zumba and hip-hop to freestyle dance classes, dancing will get your heart beating while allowing you to express your artistic side, socialize, and relieve stress.
You can choose to bop around your house at least once a day to your favorite tracks or explore dance classes at your local gym or studios. The beauty of dance is that perfection is not required for you to enjoy the fun and spontaneous nature of this activity.
Rock Climbing
Whether you tackle indoor walls or the great outdoors, rock climbing is a unique and exciting full-body workout that puts your overall strength to the test. It will not only engage the legs, arms, core, and grip strength, but it also improves balance, coordination, and requires problem-solving skills to achieve success, providing a fun mental and physical challenge.
For those new to the sport, experts strongly recommend learning the basic skills in a controlled, indoor environment with trained professionals who can share valuable tips and knowledge to ensure your safety and continued success.
Horseback Riding
Horseriding may feel like a somewhat passive workout, but it is the complete opposite. Riding a horse requires strong core engagement, good balance, and coordination to maintain the correct posture and position needed to ride a horse successfully. It helps to improve motor control skills, posture, and leg strength, making it a fun and functional endurance-building activity.
Furthermore, studies show that time spent outdoors and in the presence of animals can provide vital psychological benefits by reducing stress and anxiety and boosting confidence.
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