Whether it’s a state-mandated lockdown order, budget restrictions, or plain old preference, many people choose not to use a gym to perform their workouts. Gyms can be a hassle, anyway. Subscriptions are costly and difficult to escape if you ever try, and the experience itself can be a trial, with many judgmental eyes, showoffs, and inconsiderate people filling the space.
Today, we’re taking a look at ways you can get fit without having to rely on a gym membership. In the end, all it takes is perseverance, consistency, and a little ingenuity. Let’s dive right in.
Cardio
Cardio is an essential part of any workout routine, and is a critical aspect to keeping your body healthy. It’s also one of the easiest ways to exercise completely without a gym! One of the first things that comes to mind when many people picture cardio is running. While, sure, you could run on a treadmill, it’s much nicer to get outside, see the sights, and take in the fresh air by running outside!
All you really need is an extra comfy pair of running shoes, plus maybe some lightweight running shorts and an old t shirt you don’t mind getting a little sweaty. Find a local park or outdoor track, or just hit the road right outside your door for a run around your neighborhood.
Another easy, low-equipment cardio exercise is hiking. Hiking is great because you not only get the benefits of cardiovascular exercise and vitamin D from the sun, you also get to spend time in the great outdoors! That’s a serious win-win.
Lastly, swimming can be a great exercise that you don’t need a gym to do. In case you don’t know how to swim, Swimjourney swimming coaches can teach you. Now, it’s true, going to a local rec center pool is pretty much the same as going to the gym. However, you’re not restricted to just swimming in your local community pool! If you’re near the ocean, try swimming at the beach! You can also make use of local rivers and lakes for some aquatic fun that’s cardio-intensive to the max.
Weight lifting
Weight lifting is often one of the exercises people struggle with most when they are not able or not willing to go to a gym. After all, most people don’t exactly have a fully functioning home gym they can rely on. However, it’s actually a myth that you can’t get serious muscle gains without having a gym handy. There are plenty of ways that you can weightlift, all from the comfort of your own home. Here are a few options:
- Calisthenics: Simple body weight exercises are a great way to stay toned without having to invest in any workout equipment whatsoever. Start by doing 5 sets of 5 pushups, 5 sit ups, and 5 squats. You can slowly work your way up from there! You can read more here a Guide To Calisthenic Workouts.
- Dumbbells: Dumbbells and barbells are relatively inexpensive (at least compared to a gym membership!), and are low-tech, so you don’t have to worry about buying expensive home gym equipment. Just set up a lifting station out in your yard or garage and get busy! Resistance bands can also be a good option if you don’t have outdoor space for heavy weights. Resistance bands can also be a good option if you don’t have outdoor space for heavyweights, and Simple Fitness Hub also recommends kettlebells as great alternatives.
- Home gym: If you can afford it, a home gym system is a great way to get fit without ever having to spend a penny on a gym membership! They can be expensive up front, but depending on how long you use it, it’ll easily be a more budget-friendly option than a gym membership.
Support
Support exercises can be just as important as your intensive cardio and weight training! That’s because, in addition to the stress and resistance of working out, your body also needs cooldowns and stretches to properly benefit from your workout routine.
You can try simply stretching after a workout, paying special attention to stretching out those areas that feel tight or sore. You can also try yoga, which energizes your body through sustained deep breathing, while also stretching out sore spots and helping you build endurance and strength.
Be sure that, no matter your workout routine, you supplement it with support exercises and a healthy diet that’s high in clean proteins. With the right routine and support, you can get on the path to fitness.
