With the way the world is today we spend so much time sitting on our asses in front of either a TV or a computer screen, so it’s important to make a concerted effort to get up and move. That’s why fitness gyms are such a huge industry.
But getting in shape doesn’t mean you have to pay a monthly fee. Since New Years I have managed to lose 15lbs without setting foot into a gym once. This was achieved simply by eating less, and getting daily exercise. I actually have to wear my belt one notch higher now and it feels pretty awesome.
So if you want to get in shape, but don’t want to pay for a gym membership for whatever reason, here are a few exercises you can do to shed those pounds.
Stretch it Out
Before any exercise you need to stretch. Of course you don’t need any gym equipment for this. Give those tendons some loving and they will thank you for it with better mobility.
Walk, Run, Bike
With a very minimal investment these three exercises are available to almost anyone. All you really need is a good pair of running shoes and you’re good to go. Cycling is a great way to explore your city and burn calories while you’re at it. But if you cruise through the city on two wheels, please stay of the sidewalk.
Shadowboxing
Unleash your fists of fury and give your arms and upper body a workout. You don’t need to be a martial artist or pro boxer to practice your jab-hook combo, and you can make things a little harder by investing in some light dumbbells. Throwing punches with weights in your hands gets tiring very quickly.
Push Ups, Jumping Jacks, Crunches
These boot camp staples have been around for a very long time because they work. Combining sets of these three exercises will work your arms, legs, chest, and abs. Pump it up.
Yoga Poses
If yoga is your thing, you don’t need to have an instructor around to rock a pose. As long as you know the right positioning, and are careful not to push yourself too far, this can be a great way to tone, sculpt, and define your physique.
Squats and Lunges
Just like with the push ups, these basic exercises are tried and true. Grab a few dumbbells to add a little resistance and give those quads and gluts a good pump.
Take the Stairs
Who needs a Stairmaster when there are stairs literally everywhere you go? If you live in an apartment building, run from the bottom to the top floor and back down again. Or if you’re in a house, go up and down one flight of stairs multiple times. Set a target and challenge yourself.
Planking
No, I am not referring to that weird internet fad where people lie on top of things. Lay flat on the floor and hold your body up by propping yourself on your elbows. Hold that position for as long as you can and eventually you’ll feel it in your abs. This can be a killer core workout.
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Chris Riddell is a freelance writer from Toronto who covers art, business, and urban life for various fine publications. Also a poet and aspiring novelist, he’s busting his butt trying to get his name into a few literary magazines these days. He encourages you to check out his website for a look at what he’s been working on lately.
