The new year is a great time to start afresh, set some new goals, form healthy habits and get back into a routine.
However this time of year can also leave us feeling pressured to be the best possible version of ourselves at a time when we’re likely feeling pretty sluggish post-festive season - it’s not a great combination!
There’s often a renewed pressure to throw ourselves into exercise and fitness, and while it can be a perfectly good idea to kickstart or reignite your fitness journey, this doesn’t have to mean restricting yourself or participating in gruelling workouts that aren’t actually enjoyable…
Instead, finding fun ways to exercise is essential to a sustainable workout routine - after all, if you dread the exercise you’re planning on doing, you’re far less likely to actually do it.
Here are 10 fun ways to exercise, whether you’re a student or a professional juggling a busy lifestyle. Let’s prioritise making fitness something to look forward to in 2024 rather than something we feel we have to do!
- ROCK CLIMBING
Indoor rock climbing in the UK has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, and it’s no wonder given how fun this activity is whilst being a real physical challenge too - don’t underestimate how much strength it takes!
Not only is it great for increasing things like grip strength as well as working muscles such as your lats, core, forearms and quads, it’s also a great form of cardio too, burning between 480 and 600 calories per hour for the average climber.
But most importantly, it’s fun, challenging, and great for socialising! You’re bound to meet plenty of likeminded people and rock climbing communities are renowned for being super tight knit.
- HIKING
No matter your fitness level, hiking is another fun way to exercise and you’ll get to enjoy the satisfaction of taking in a stunning view once you’ve reached the top!
Hiking is a fantastic way to get yourself outdoors - and if you time it right, you can even plan a sunrise or sunset hike to enjoy the best possible views.
With hiking, you can tailor your route to your individual fitness levels and choose exactly how challenging or leisurely you’d like it to be.
Whether you find yourself in the Peak District or the Brecon Beacons, make sure to check out our range of generous discounts from leading outdoor brands such as GO Outdoors and Regatta to make major savings on everything you need for your next hike!
- HULA HOOPING
Hula hooping may not be the first thing to cross your mind when you think about getting a workout in, but it’s without a doubt one of the most fun ways to exercise and burns a surprising number of calories too!
Half an hour of hula hooping is said to be as effective as salsa, swing or belly dancing, burning from 160-200 calories in that time.
Infusing some playfulness into your exercise routine, hula hooping is a great way of combining fitness and fun.
Improving coordination, core strength and balance, this isn’t an exercise to dismiss!
- POLE DANCING
Pole dancing truly is a full body workout - even when you’re just starting out, the moves are dynamic and you can expect to work every muscle in your body!
It may seem a little daunting at first but pole dancing is actually a great way to boost body positivity and confidence, all while being one of the most fun ways to workout.
From choreographed routines to conditioning exercises, pole dancing is a fun way to embrace your strength, sensuality and athleticism in an uplifting environment.
- MMA
Blending various combat disciplines into an engaging and comprehensive workout, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a fun and dynamic approach to exercise! What makes MMA particularly enjoyable is the diversity of skills involved, incorporating elements from disciplines such as boxing, wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai.
Not only does this keep workouts exciting, it also ensures a holistic approach to fitness, targeting strength, endurance and agility.
- BOXERCISE
Boxercise classes are a fun and popular way for people of all abilities to engage in the training concepts boxers use to keep fit - think shadow boxing, skipping, kicking punch bags, hitting pads and building your core strength through the likes of sit-ups.
Many gyms offer boxercise classes for free to members, so why not check out some of the cheapest gym memberships for students, check out their fitness classes and give boxercise a go?!
- REFORMER PILATES
Reformer Pilates emerged as one of the top fitness trends in 2023 (thanks TikTok!), and it’s understandable given just how fun this full-body workout is.
It incorporates a unique piece of equipment known as the reformer - a bed-like frame that moves back and forth - adding resistance to classic Pilates exercises and making it extra challenging.
With its focus on controlled movements and precise form, Reformer Pilates not only enhances physical fitness but also promotes better posture and body awareness.
- ICE SKATING
Don’t be fooled into thinking ice skating is solely a recreational activity to embrace during the festive season – it’s actually a fantastic and fun way to exercise, engaging multiple muscle groups and promoting balance and coordination!
If you love the idea of gliding effortlessly across the ice rink instead of stumbling along and trying your best to stay upright, ice skating classes are the best way to improve your skills - you never know, you could be the next Jayne Torvill or Christopher Dean!
- STEPPER-TON
Step classes have taken on a whole new feel in recent years, with one Manchester-based gym embracing Stepper-Ton - a dance-based workout that has taken TikTok by storm.
Gone are the days of learning the same old boring step routines! Instead, Stepper-Ton is a fast-paced and exciting new spin on the traditional step aerobics workout. You’ll learn complex sequences to some of your all time favourite RnB and Hip Hop classics in a class with likeminded, high energy people - what’s not to love?!
- KAYAKING
Last but by no means least is kayaking - who doesn’t love water sports?!
Whether you live near a lake or you’re lucky enough to live by the sea, kayaking is great for both the body and mind.
Paddling through serene lakes, rivers, or along coastal shores engages the upper body, particularly the arms, shoulders, and back muscles, as you navigate through the water. The rhythmic motion of paddling also promotes cardiovascular fitness, enhancing heart health and endurance. Beyond the physical benefits, kayaking offers a unique sensory experience, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
