If you'd rather have teeth pulled than hop on an exercise bike, you're not alone. Finding the motivation to squeeze your bottom into a pair of Lycra shorts is just too much to bear after a exhausting day at the office. So what's a weight conscious person to do? You want to get more active, but you want it to be fun too. What's so unreasonable about that? Nothing. What's more, there are plenty of ways to feel the burn that means you don't have to go within a mile of that nasty, mean old gym instructor. And while you may not get an aerobic workout with most of these activities, you can see how they will add up to affect your overall activity levels and help you tone up - as you have a bit of fun too! Activity Boost Level: Mild Kiss Me Pucker up with a loved one and your heart will start racing. Put a bit of oomph into it and you'll not only get flushed, you'll be working it that part harder too. Laugh It Off Laughing is thought to improve your immune system and skin condition. Rent a good comedy or get together with a friend who really gets you giggling to feel the immediate benefits. Make Love Boost your activity levels by making whoopee. And, if you feel in a frisky mood, a particularly vigorous session can give you a really good aerobic workout. Scream for Your Team The last time you screamed for your local sports team you'll have felt your blood pumping. If you watched last year's Stanley Cup Final, even better! The Write Stuff An hour spent furiously scribbling can really give you an energy boost, especially if you're concentrating hard. Activity Boost Level: Moderate Sing Hallelujah Believe it or not, a rousing sing song can give you a decent workout - just make sure you belt it out at full volume. Have a Tinkle If you're musically minded, playing the piano is good for toning those muscles - choose something energetic like rag-time or a dramatic classical piece to really feel the benefits. Do a Delia Have a dinner party for six people or more. All that furious cooking chopping and grating will really give you a rush! Have a look at our recipe section for inspiration. Get Under the Hood If you're handy with a screwdriver, mending your car gives your day a bit of extra activity - especially if making heavy repairs. Milk a Cow Milking by hand can really get your heart pumping. Slight snag - first find your cow. Activity Boost Level: High Do It Yourself Both woodwork and plumbing will give you a decent activity boost - now there's a handy way to lose weight and check things of your "to do" list too! Child's Play Young kids never seem to sit still. Take a leaf out of their book and go play; it's not just great for family bonding, you'll also feel the burn after a bit! Try a half hour game of energetic soccer or some backyard gymnastics. Disco Diva Put on your sparkly skirt and head for the dance floor - a good half hour boogie will tone your whole body. Move House If the prospect of changing homes is getting you down, be cheered by the fact that shifting and carrying furniture is quite a strenuous workout. So get packing! |
