Joining a gym is not a prerequisite to getting fit. You can incorporate regular exercise and healthy practices into your daily routine without paying for an overpriced membership.
Have S.M.A.R.T Fitness Goals
First things first, make your fitness goals Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-bound. Having a clear fitness goal in mind gives you a reason to stay motivated. Whether it be big or small, this goal should be challenging but achievable. You want to be able to reach your benchmark and be motivated to make a new one.
Fitness Apps
Whatever your goal is, there is a guaranteed fitness app that will suit you and your fitness goals. It’s like having a personal trainer in the comfort of your own home. If you struggle to stay motivated, this is a great place to start. Once you have established your fitness goal, search for an app related your goal. Some examples include: Nike Training Club, RunKeeper and Sworkit.
Move More Mindset
Life can get busy and often when this happens, exercise takes a back seat. Develop a ‘move more’ mindset. By reminding yourself to move more in the day, you are more likely to do so. Take the stairs instead of the lift, walk to your co-worker’s desk instead of emailing them, sit less and stand more. These small changes can make a big difference.
Tailor Your Workout for the Time You Have
If it’s not realistic for you to take an hour out of your day for exercise then don’t beat yourself up about it. If you can only put 7 – 20 minutes aside then tailor your workouts to that. HIIT workouts are great when you have limited time!
Examples of quick workouts include:
- 7 minutes max effort burpees or squats.
- 100m sprints Every Minute on the Minute (EMOM) for the amount of time you have.
- 10-minute TABATA (20 seconds work, 10 seconds rest): 2 rounds, 1 minute per station.
- Squats
- Sit-ups
- Walking lunges
- Burpees
- Jumping jacks
The Great Outdoors
You don’t need to be tied down to a treadmill. There are plenty of ways to keep fit without joining a gym. Why not take your workout outdoors - step outside and make the most of the environment around you. Some great alternatives include:
 | Cycling Cycling is a great way to boost your fitness and energy levels. From mountains to sea and so much in between, it all comes to life on the bike. Its quicker than walking but slow enough to take in the breath-taking scenery and a great activity to do with your friends and family. |
 | Running/Walking These two activities are not only great for burning calories, but they also boost your mood, improve your sleep and enhance your focus. You can do these two activities almost anywhere. |
 | Home Fitness If you prefer a home/garden workout then try switch things up with some equipment. You will be surprised at how versatile your workout routines can be with a single piece of equipment. You can get creative and even travel it. |