Staying in shape will only happen if you do make an effort, whether that’s at the gym, outdoors or on the dance floor. If you’ve decided that a structured workout isn’t the right fit for you and you can’t stick to yoga, pilates or aerobic classes either, try these simple ways to keep your muscles toned.
Discover a few easy ways to stay in shape without spending too much time worrying about working out. Making these simple changes will allow you to work out on your own terms.
Focus on Staying Active Every Day
Paying attention to the things you do everyday is the simplest way to start making changes. From taking the stairs instead of the elevator and enjoying a brisk walk instead of a 5 minute car ride, there are plenty of opportunities to get your blood pumping. If you’re using a bus or the subway, try getting off one station before your destination for a few minutes of walking.
Keep Equipment at Hand
A great idea among the easy ways to stay in shape is to have exercise equipment around, so you’re more likely to use it. Whether you try a resistance band, a stability ball or simple dumbbells, you’re more likely to use the equipment for a few minutes while you’re waiting for your dinner to get ready or for your favorite TV show to come on.
See also: 7 Effective Workouts for People Who Hate Exercising
Stop Sitting When Using Your Smartphone
Whether you need to make a call or write a text or email, stand up and pace around instead of sitting in your comfortable chair. This type of tiny change can end up making a difference in the long run, because when you’re getting fitter, you’re more likely to try new activities that will help you stay in shape.
Look at Yourself While Exercising
Research has shown that people are more likely to keep exercising when they’re looking at themselves in the mirror. If you’re staying away from gyms, which usually have one wall covered in mirrors, one of the easiest ways to stay in shape is to exercise at home in front of the mirror, even if it’s just 10 minutes on the treadmill or 5 minutes with a hula-hoop or jump rope.
Dance
Even if you consider yourself allergic to all gym equipment, you don’t need any props to simply dance. You can take a class or simply rock your best moves at home, while listening to upbeat music. Dancing by yourself will also help you get in a good mood, regardless of whether you work up a sweat or not.
Don’t miss: Belly Dance Benefits
Use Motivational Apps
Your smartphone might be the best fitness assistant ever. All you need to do is fill it with the right apps. Using apps is definitely one of the easiest ways to stay in shape, since so many fitness apps are free or very cheap, and they can be really useful. From pedometer apps, that count how many steps you take every day, to motivational apps with workout tips, you’ll find many fitness apps are truly helpful.
Listen to the Right Music
Even when you’re just walking for a few minutes, listening to the right music can help you reach a more active pace. You can find apps for your smartphone that measure the BPM of each song specifically for fitness, like paceDJ, or simply stick to songs with faster beats when you’re on the move in order to maximize your exercise potential.
Plan Your Weekends and Vacations Correctly
This next idea of easy ways to stay in shape is to simply make sure that you’re not only making choices that will keep you sedentary. Go for activities that will keep you on the move and avoid vacation spots where there’s nothing to do except lounging on a beach all day.
Read more: Fitness Vacations for Women
Surround Yourself with Fit People
The people you spend most of your time with will influence you the most, so start making new friends based on your interest for staying in good shape. You might pick up good diet and exercise tips, but fit people are also usually upbeat, because they’re getting their endorphins kick from exercising.
Go On More Active Dates
When it comes to easy ways to stay in shape, there’s nothing simpler than saying no to a dinner and a movie when you’re planning your dates. A museum or exhibition will keep you fit and sometimes a picnic and long walk in the park is the more romantic choice.
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