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Ways To Stay Fit If You Don’t Like Working Out

The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Illinois chapter.

Do you dislike going to the gym or doing regular workouts? You’re not alone! The good news is, you don’t have to do workouts you dislike in order to stay healthy and fit. In this article, we’re going to explore some alternative activities that will still help you maintain your fitness levels without ever setting foot in a gym. We’ll uncover creative ways to keep your body active and your mind engaged, all while doing the things you enjoy. So, if you’re ready to learn how to stay healthy in a way that suits you, keep reading!

stretching

Stretching is a great way to stay in shape, especially if traditional workouts aren’t for you. It’s a low-impact activity that you can do without any fancy gear or going to the gym. Regular stretching is a great way to improve your posture, flexibility, and range of motion, which are all very important when trying to stay healthy. It also loosens your muscles, lowers your chance of injury, and improves the blood flow in your body. The best part is that you can choose how you want to stretch! It could be relaxing like yoga or just simple stretches throughout your day of work or school.

Social activities

Having fun with friends while being active can also help keep you fit. Engaging in any activities that involve physical movement, such as hiking, going swimming, or riding bikes will keep you in shape… and it’ll just feel like hanging out! When having fun with friends, you may not even notice the physical effort you’re putting in. Being with friends isn’t just good for your body, it’s good for your mental health too. Friends will also likely motivate you to keep exercising regularly!

dancing

Dancing offers an enjoyable and effective way to stay fit. You can pick your style, like hip-hop, ballroom, or Zumba, and it’ll not only keep your body active but also engage your mind and emotions. It’s a full-body workout that combines cardio exercise with muscle toning and flexibility. The social aspect of dancing can be rewarding as well, so consider joining dance classes or attending social dance events! 

go for walks alone

Taking a solitary walk allows you to connect with nature, relax your mind, and be alone with your thoughts, while also reaping many health benefits. It’s an exercise that is easy on the joints and doable for people of all fitness levels. It makes your heart stronger, boosts your mood, and helps you burn calories gradually. Whether you choose to take a slow or speedy walk, it’s a simple and peaceful way to stay healthy. Plus, you can explore new places and enjoy some quiet time to think, making it a nice daily habit for your well-being.

set realistic goals

Making realistic fitness goals is really important, especially if you aren’t a fan of traditional workouts. It helps you make a fitness plan that suits you and what you like to do. When you set goals you can actually reach, you won’t get frustrated or burnt out, which can happen if you push yourself too hard. Instead of trying to make big changes all at once, focus on improvement over time. These goals can be simple, like walking a certain distance, moving more each day, or trying fun activities. They’ll help you stay excited and stick to your fitness plan. Remember, it’s not about how fast you reach your goals, but how consistently you can integrate fitness into your life in a way that feels enjoyable. 

Lauren Cravens

Illinois '25