Everyone is suddenly obsessed with working out. We all take note of our physical appearances and try to look the best we can. It is important to choose a healthy lifestyle so as to avoid complications or increase chances of obesity. Engaging in physical exercises, going to the gym and doing morning and evening runs are some of the ways we keep fit. While running is good as it helps you shed the fat you dislike, there are other amazing ways to help you get that shape you so much long for. If you feel like taking a break from running but still be physically fit, the following exercises are recommended.

Cycling: It is always lovely to see people cycle; whether outside on the roads or in the gym. Cycling is among the best cardiovascular exercises. Cycling increases you lung’s capacity and strengthens the heart. Indoor cycling can be a good alternative to jogging, as it is a low impact exercise. If you feel a little under the weather and cannot afford to do your routine runs outside, then cycling is just for you. Fitness junkies who want to go on with their daily exercises but can’t jog due to mild illnesses or injuries should go for indoor cycling. Cycling out with bicycles is another great way of keeping fit. You are able to breathe fresh air away from your house, and treat yourself to the beautiful views along your cycling path. Biking gives you that adrenaline rush and influence the release of neurotransmitters called endorphins. Endorphins are important as they create happy feelings and reduce stress levels. Cycling is also good for your joint mobility and muscle strength.

Skipping with a Rope: Just like running, jumping a rope is a good way of doing cardio exercise. Your energy levels are increased and the heart rate improves. You can do 3 ten minute long jumps every day, and your thighs and calf muscles will be toned. Skipping ropes is less strenuous compared to running; and one burns as much calories as they can.  Not forgetting how cheap jumping ropes are compared to other gym equipment. If you’re having weight issues, skipping the rope will tremendously help you in your weight loss journey.

Yoga: Isn’t it amazing how Yoga helps calm nerves. Yoga relaxes your system and lowers your breathing rate. While doing Yoga, blood flow to the reproductive organs and intestines is increased. Yoga is also a great way of reducing your blood pressure. Yoga practices help you focus and improve your memory. Flexibility is one aspect that is greatly improved through Yoga. You may not be able to easily touch your toes or bend forward and backwards or do twists; constant Yoga practices will make this seem effortless in no time. This is also beneficial to your spine. You will pose in whichever manner you wish after a few sessions of Yoga. The drainage of lymph increases with the many movements, stretching and change in posture. The lymphatic system is thus able to fight cancerous cells, stop infections and dispose toxic waste.

Gardening: You probably did not expect to see this here. Well, gardening is great for your back and arms. You don’t have to dig large portions of land; just the small piece on your yard is enough. You engage in functional exercises each time you bend down to dig, pull out weeds, lift or stretch. The bonding with nature as you take care of your garden also improves your sensory perception. Being in your garden is a natural anti-stress agent, as the environment there is calm and quiet. Digging will have you focused on your plants and this will keep the stressful thoughts away from you. Spending at least one hour everyday at the garden, for five days a week will do you a lot of good.

Sit-Ups: So you want to lose that belly fat and running isn’t working for you? Do as many sit ups as you can. Sit ups will strengthen and tone your abdominal muscles. Sit ups can be done on the bed, the floor or any flat surface. For that flat tummy, ensure you do your sit ups correctly. It also helps keep you r metabolism system running smoothly

Swimming: Swimming is another low impact cardiovascular exercise that can be substituted for running. Jump in the pool and swim away if you are bored of running but still want to burn calories. Depending on the intensity of your strokes, you can burn up to 100 calories by swimming for just ten minutes. Swimming reduces inflammation which often leads to atherosclerosis build up in the heart. If you yearn for flexibility, then swimming is an exercise you should pay attention to. As you change your strokes, you stretch and twist thus leading to flexibility.  You can also do slow runs in the pool. Aqua jogging is a great exercise while in the pool. While it’s difficult to run inside the water, little laps will take away your joint impact. Another bonus to running in water is that you will not get sweaty or smelly at the end. If that is not a plus, I don’t know what is.  While you are also less likely to be injured while jogging in the pool, always be careful. Swimming will help you tone your body.

Elliptical Workouts: For just thirty minutes a day on the elliptical machine, you will be able to burn more fat that you can imagine. The secret is to not stick with just one routine. Do your elliptical work outs in intervals. You can choose either five or ten minute intervals. Start with a steady pace and keep increasing the machine’s incline or decline setting. With the incline steady, double the speed for three minutes and recover for one or two minutes. Together with a positive mentality and healthy diet, the elliptical machine will help you cut weight. The cross trainer is good for booty workout as with time, you will realize that your backside is toned.

As much as we exercise, a healthy diet is also required to achieve that shape we all dream of. Avoid the intake of junk foods just before or after working out. Our daily habits also contribute to the results of how we work out. Use the stairs any time you can. Don’t take the elevator to the first or second floor. Remember lots of water, and be committed to your routine.

By Diego