5 Ways To Get In Shape Without Actually Working Out

Yes, my friends, it is that time of year again. The time of bikinis, shorts, and “skinny” cocktails (whatever those are!). If you are anything like me, then working out is not fun. It is something I will avoid at all costs. I even once told a friend that my hamster had passed away to avoid going…there was no hamster.

In order for me to willing workout, I have to make it something I enjoy. I have never been able to stick to a workout schedule that worked for me, and I would have done just about anything else than go to the gym. If you join me in desperately avoiding gyms then I have some activities that will get you moving!

These are 5 activities that are not just fun, but also incredible workouts!

Explore a new town

I love to go on adventures. I just recently spent two weeks over in Europe just touring towns, and walking so much that my Fitbit literally stopped working. Even if you are not able to go somewhere far away, there are always places to go near you. My favorite thing to do is to get on google and look up some day trips from where I live. Once you find a place to visit, walk everywhere! Walk around amazing stores, walk to the mom and pop restaurants, and maybe even take photos while you’re walking! It is a great way to see a lot of a town that you would normally not see.I have found some of my favorite little cafes and shops while exploring towns that have been hidden from the main areas.

Go whitewater rafting

This is a BIG thing where I live. I even worked at a rafting company when I was in high school, and everyone was jealous of my job! It may seem like you are just floating down a river, but the strength that is required to control your raft is pretty intense. Especially with nature doing it’s absolute best to topple you over. Whitewater rafting is also a great way to get your family together too. If you are looking for something more complicated or just more advanced, try canoeing or kayaking. Choosing one of these will put all of the work on you, and you will definitely feel it in your arms the next day!

Swim, duh!

I am pretty sure everyone has been in the position of pain after swimming. You’re feeling like a mermaid, floating around, and then you wake up the next morning. Your body does not normally move that much, and your muscles are constantly fighting the water. It is amazing cardio, and will keep you cool in this insane summer that we are currently having. Plus, you need a reason to buy that cute new flamingo float! The best thing about swimming is the relief from all of this crazy weather we are having, just make sure to wear sun protection, and to stay hydrated.

Ride your bike

This is a great alternative to driving! Where I live, we are under a pretty severe air quality warning, and they are trying to get everyone to use different forms of transportation. They have even created an area downtown where you can rent bikes, ride them around, and then return them at any other location in the area. It is a really easy thing to do, and a lot of other cities are implementing this idea, so check around…you probably have them too. Biking is a great leg workout and a way to be able to get the most out of your time.

Get out and play!

Most of us are not kids anymore, but we still love to play! My family is constantly getting out and playing a ton of sports, or having water balloon fights. When you are doing something that you are having fun at, you forget about the physical aspect of all that you are doing. Not only is it great exercise, but Vitamin D is something that our bodies need, and that is provided by the sun. I don’t think I have to say it, but make sure that you are using protection against the sun. SPF is a summer must have!

These are my five activities that I love! Depending on where you live, you can cater these to include some unique activities that are part of your town. Even a day at the mall could be considered working out! It is hard to carry all of those bags around! Perfect time to pick up that new swimsuit for swimming too.  Staying active is not just about looking good, it is about feeling great, and being healthy. Summer is a great time to get out of the house, so what are you waiting for? What activities do you in order to stay healthy without actually working out?

Hey, Everyone! I am Ashlee, you can find me at www.ashleeliz.com. I run a lifestyle blog that focuses on beauty, travel, blogging, and advice topics. I love Disney, travel, and pretending that I am able to cook. If anything interests you, come visit! You can also find me on Twitter, Instagram,Pinterest, and Linkedin.