12 Must-Try Gym Alternatives

Don’t like going to the gym? You’re not alone. Many people find it difficult to go to the gym and stick with a workout routine. But don’t worry, there are plenty of gym alternatives that can help you get in shape that are actually better for you!

Hate Going to the Gym?

If you hate going to the gym, you’re not alone. In fact, there are a number of perfectly good reasons why people hate going to the gym.

Spare the Expense

For one thing, gyms can be expensive, and sometimes it’s hard to justify the cost when there are so many other things you could be doing with your money. Why get “tricked” into the deluxe package and a 2-year contract, for example, if you might end up having to move anyway???

Noisy, Crowded Gyms

Additionally, gyms can be crowded and noisy, which can make it difficult to focus on your workout. Have you ever gone into a gym and the heavy metal is just a little too heavy for you? Or is the pop music just distracting because you’ve already heard a song 10 times that week?

Intimidating Situations

And let’s not forget that gyms can be intimidating places, especially if you’re new to working out. Some people go to the gym to work off their irritation, which may linger at inconvenient times. This doesn’t even get into the intimidating or even strange situations you might get into just by visiting the locker room.

User-Friendly Alternatives Exist

Fortunately, there are a number of alternatives to the traditional gym that can help you meet your fitness goals without all the hassle. Whether you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option or simply want to avoid the crowds, there’s sure to be an option that’s right for you. So don’t give up on your fitness goals just because you hate going to the gym: find an alternative for gym right for you!

12 Alternatives to Going to the Gym

There are many gym alternatives that can provide great benefits, and many can rightfully say, like the famous Herschel Walker of Dallas Cowboys and MMA fighting fame, that skipping the gym may be the best benefit of all!

1.   Hiking, for example, is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise all at once. There may be many trails near your home, and all are worthy of exploration.

2.   Climbing is another activity that can give you a great workout while also providing a sense of accomplishment. While this may be less local to you, it can be a great challenge you can mix into a weekly routine.

3.   Many find yoga to be beneficial for both the mind and body, but as Herschel Walker may attest, the isometric workouts as a variation of this may be what you need to build muscle and lose weight.

4.   Swimming is a great low-impact activity, that practically anyone can benefit from on some level.

5.   Gardening can be a relaxing way to get some exercise as you regenerate with nature. Dirt and compost will likely be part of this game. Just be sure to stretch and watch your back as you lift.

6.   Cycling is a great way to explore your surroundings and even get to important destinations without paying a pretty price for gasoline.

7.   Dance is a fun way to get your heart rate up with routines like Zumba, especially when you involve a friend or loved one.

8.   Boxing is a great way to release some stress and may be even important if you find the art of self-defense important in your life.

9.   Aerial hoop is a fantastic physical and mental challenge that will build your strength and flexibility. Like aerial silks below, you may want to do it in a class to get full benefits.

10. Practicing aerial silks is more new in the fitness environment since it puts your body in different positions and new ways you never thought you would. Like aerial hoop, you can get plenty of fresh air as you jump around. It’s become sort of a craze that you might even want to bring to TikTok!

11. Outdoor games like badminton are a great way to get some exercise while also having fun in competition.

12. Walking may seem Plain Jane, but it is a simple way to unite with Nature and even be social with those in your neighborhood. Pair up with a buddy or furry friend for safety as necessary, but don’t neglect moving that body in this low-impact treat!

Don’t Force the Gym Rat Race: There are Even Better Ways to Get in Shape!

For some people, the gym is a great place to get in shape. However, for others, the gym can be a source of frustration and even dread. Forcing yourself to go to the gym can be counter-productive and may actually make it harder to get in shape. If you hate going to the gym, chances are you won’t stick with it for very long. Instead of forcing yourself to go to the gym, try looking for other ways to get in shape, like the gym alternatives we’ve already spoken of.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to get in shape without setting foot inside a gym. You could even go for a run outdoors, join a local sports team, or even take up hiking or rock climbing with a new friend. The important thing is to find an activity that you enjoy and that fits your lifestyle. Forcing yourself to go to the gym when you hate it is likely to do more harm than good. So if the gym isn’t your thing, don’t be afraid to explore alternatives to going to the gym.

In fact, we’ve seen some of these possibilities can provide great benefits, so there is no excuse not to get out there and get in a routine that delivers results!