Does the idea of running a mile or two every morning fill you with dread?  Does an elliptical machine seem more like a torture device than a major fat burner?  Or are you the type who equates exercise with pain, disenchantment, and just overall despises the idea of the old 80′s saying, “No pain, no gain?” If so, you’re not alone.  Many people hate to exercise.  In fact, countless models remark that they would rather eat less and follow a strict diet than exercise, but exercise is the key to leading a healthy lifestyle.  Consuming healthy foods and having healthy eating habits are, of course, advisable, but account for only half of the healthy lifestyle equation.  Exercise combined with a healthy diet has been shown to fight heart disease, obesity, and a variety of other ailments that affect millions of Americans every day. So before you completely give up on exercise, try a few of the fun exercise alternatives listed below. They may seem outside the norm, but they’re sure to give you a great workout, so great in fact, that you won’t even notice that you’re working up a sweat!

Water Aerobics

Water aerobics is a great combination of fun, water, and fitness! Furthermore, it’s easy on the joints so it’s an ideal workout for many different fitness levels and age groups.  Your gym is sure to offer a class or two.  So pull out that old swimsuit and head to the pool.

Zumba

Shake your hips and get energized with this great workout that combines Latin dances for a total body workout that you’re sure to enjoy.  Classes usually feature a combination of Latin music from merengue to the now popular reggaeton.  You’ll be sure to have a smile on your face as you wiggle and bounce to tunes from artists such as Shakira and Daddy Yankee.

Capoeira

This Brazilian martial arts technique that combines combat style moves with a dance flair is an ideal way to get in shape while having fun.  You’ll learn both how to defend yourself and move to the rhythm, with this delightful and super energetic martial arts form.

Tai Chi

Ideal if you’re hoping to increase your sense of balance, but would rather not have to fold your joints into any complicated poses as the yogis on television, tai chi is a terrific choice.  This exercise is especially revered in China where many older individuals practice it daily.

Fencing

En garde! It may be an expensive hobby, but there’s nothing like coming home from a frustrating day at work and taking it out on your unsuspecting fencing partner.  With fencing you’ll do more squats and lunges than your average aerobic class, all the while with a sword in hand. Touché!

Belly Dancing

Great for toning the middle and dwindling away the fat around the hips, belly dancing is a fun exercise for the individual not afraid to connect to her inner femme fatale.  A mix of belly gyrations and hip drops, to the beat of foreign music will have you dropping inches while you slink around, loving it!

Rock Climbing

Without a doubt, rock climbing is a proven way to build upper body strength while having a great time.  Bring a friend and race to see who gets to the top first. Just whatever you: do don’t look down.

So try to incorporate any of the above exercises into your daily routine, and you’ll be sure to have fun while toning up and losing weight.

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