How to get a good workout without a gym

Many people think that in order to get fit you must go to the gym. I am here to tell you that is a myth! There are so many things in nature that offer just as much, if not more resistance and challenge than you will find in a gym. Whether you hate the gym altogether or are looking for change here are some ideas to get you started.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• internet

1. 
    

   Do some research. Get on the web and find local places that will provide great a workout environment. The beach is fantastic as the sand provides great resistance that can not be found in the gym. From running to lunges to push ups, the sand will challenge you! www.mapmyruns.com is a great website which allows you to enter a location and find published routes or map your own for running, swimming, hiking and more!
   Many communities have public stairs, tracks, trails etc. Find out what your community has to offer.

2. 
    

   Create a plan. Having a daily plan helps you to hold yourself accountable as well as find the best location that will fit your needs for that day. Doing cardio as well as strength training? Perhaps the beach is a good place. Strictly cardio? A location that has hills may be good or perhaps a local track.
   Breakdown your workouts into body parts. If your are doing a leg day choose 5-6 exercises that can be done without equipment. Lunges and squats are a good example. When choosing your location take these things into account.

3. 
    

   Mix it up! The easiest time to break a routine is when you are bored. Find places that inspire and motivate you. If you loathe a leg workout but love the beach, choosing that location will help you get through it.

4. 
    

   Because there are no machines doing the counting for you, give yourself a minimum time frame. Having this type of structure allows you to get the most of your workout. Set at least 30 minutes to 1 hour of time and keep moving the whole time! (having that plan in place will come in handy!)Time will go by faster when doing something like hiking rather than running on a treadmill so you may end up staying longer than you thought!

Tips & Warnings

• do your research. You can surf the web, ask friends or check your local town hall for park and recreational information in your area.
• If you have the means to incorporate some fitness equipment, things like dumbbells can be kept in your car for an easy addition!
• Weather a problem? There are hundreds of exercises you can do in the comfort of your own home. A simple web search and you can find loads of how to's, video clips that will show you form and more!

[hike32]

on 7/28/2008 I agree! For me it is important to find a workout that I will be able to stay at.

I found a great website that offers free advice that has helped me a lot:

www.inspireimagine.com

[cwalker3]

on 5/20/2008 Great article !!! It is amazing the kind of results you can achieve right at home with a combination of cardio and a cheap set of weights.