Enjoy a Workout That's Easy, Fun, and Free

A little creative thinking can help you discover no-cost ways to enjoy activity. 

Your own backyard: After you’ve finished gardening, weeding, and mowing the lawn, invite the neighborhood over for friendly yard games such as badminton, croquet, tag, hula hoops, or Frisbee.

City and neighborhood sidewalks: Sneak in a 15-minute walk whenever you can. Add some hills to burn extra calories. Find a safe sidewalk for kids to play hopscotch, four square, or jump rope.

Parks and community trails: Look for hiking trails, playing fields, and built-in equipment for spot-fitness routines. Check your local parks and recreation department for activities and special classes.

High-rise buildings: Bypass the elevator and use the stairs for a heart-pumping weight-bearing workout. 

Libraries: Check out the selection of exercise and dance videos that you can play on your home entertainment center. 

Source: Hope Health Letter, May 2006, Vol. 26, No. 5