Top 4 Ways to Make Exercise Enjoyable

April 1, 2009

Getting up with the rooster isn't always as magical as it's believed to be. And going for a run after work is usually the last thing you feel like doing. Here are four ideas to make exercise less of a drag.

1. Think like a kid. When you were young, you went sledding in the winter, swimming in the summer, and everything in between. Treadmills are boring; the scenery never changes. Get out there and do something you love—something that puts a smile on your face. So find a small lake to swim in. Jump rope. Get a trampoline. String up a punching bag from your backyard tree. Learn to dance. Ride your kid's pogo stick. Cruise around on your bike. Play badminton. Build a fort. Or you can coach your favorite sport and have a bunch of little exercise partners.

2. Walk or run down every street in your neighborhood or city. The problem with exercise is that it can be repetitive and can get predictable and tedious. With new scenery every day and an ambitious goal to see the city, this is a great way to stay motivated and visually document your home town. All you need is a map, a highlighter, and a sense of direction.

3. Engage your mind. Download new music or an audiobook to your MP3 player and exercise your mind. Or use that time to think through that new business idea you had last night. When you focus and use your time effectively, you'll be able to relax your mind as well as your body.

4. Create a crazy goal. Chances are, you might never become a professional athlete, but don't let that stop you from breaking a "world record" of your own. Get a pedometer and walk 400,000 steps this summer. Break the record for most dogs outrun or park benches hurdled. Start with a cartwheel, graduate to a roundoff, and see if you can complete a handspring in less than two weeks. Get creative. Be inventive.

sneak in a fun workout outside >

As always, be sure to consult a physician before beginning any exercise program.

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