Most people view exercise as punishment unless they are fitness freaks or extremely health conscious. People who are trying to lose weight will find that every weight loss plan consists of some type of exercise regimen without exception. The 21st century has brought instant gratification and people expect results and quick fixes for everything and exercise is no different. New machines that promise to exercise your body while you sit in front of the TV are nothing more than a gimmick that will probably end up gathering dust under the bed of the person who bought it a month from now. Then, of course, there are the gym contracts that few complete after the first month. There’s just no time is the excuse or you can be body conscious, which is another main reason people won’t ever think they’re luring the stars out of every skinny joe in the gym again.

Your current condition may indicate that you need to exercise

If you have children and you come home tired and stressed from work, surely you have rejected many offers to play with them, promising that next time or on the weekend you will play a game of football or basketball with them. Just not now thanks. You really need the rest. People will be very surprised to find that the energy is there and just after getting into the mood and games with your kids, you will be surprised to find that you have more pent up energy than you thought. Moderate exercise, no matter the type, is enough to increase your fitness level, and the result is a healthier lifestyle in the long run.

Types of activities that you can consider as exercise.

The following are examples of daily exercise that can be considered good healthy activity that your body needs without being punished for exercise. One thing should be noted here. Don’t hurt yourself or beat yourself up because this will discourage you before you even start. Take a break from time to time and make these exercises a pleasant pastime.

Walking is good exercise.

Walking fast instead of taking the bus, instead of parking at the top of the mall entrance every time, walking to the park with the dog, walking around the block, to the local store. Walking is a natural human movement and if you do it regularly enough the benefits are great for the whole body. Know your surroundings and the neighborhood. You can walk your dog or do it for someone else, or enjoy the company of your partner or children. Encourage your family to walk together every day and you’ll find yourself burning calories while getting plenty of fresh air and sunlight which is also good for your body.

Gardening and housework

These work hand in hand and can be a great form or exercise if you do the chores yourself and regularly. Mowing your own lawn, digging beds, hauling leaves after you’ve raked them are all great ways to burn calories. House cleaning or maintenance can also be good exercise, as long as it is done regularly and with enthusiasm. Giving your car a good wash is also a great way to burn off those calories.

Swimming

Swimming is another enjoyable form of exercise that people underestimate and jumping into the local pool or borrowing from the neighbors if you don’t have one is a good idea and social too. Even walking against the water from one end of the pool to the other can take your breath away. Swimming is a great way to tone your muscles without damaging your joints and you can have fun in the pool with all kinds of different water sports without being shy about your figure or appearance.

Take the stairs instead of the elevators

If you work in a high-rise building, taking the stairs will get you in shape no matter how many floors you have to climb. It may be sensible to start by going up one story per day per week and work your way up to two stories and so on. If you don’t work in an office building, get off the bus or train one block before your stop and walk the rest of the way at a brisk pace.

get a bike

People have forgotten how much fun riding a bike is. There are still dozens of parks where you can ride your bike, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your fitness level increases. The other great alternative to this is an exercise bike that you can use at home. Try cycling more distances and challenge yourself. If you like to ride a bike, you can also enjoy fun activities like badminton, volleyball or fun soccer. Only participate as long as you WANT to play them instead of being forced to when you don’t. These are all great exercises that you can enjoy.

Regular activities and exercise as mentioned above will make you feel better mentally and physically, as well as whet your appetite and help you sleep better at night. By making these exercises a part of your daily routine, you will be amazed at how fit you will be and you will also be able to lose pounds this way. Who needs a punishing gym or exercise program when you have all these options as just a few examples of ways you can get in shape?