Need motivation to get involved in a new activity? Try these five fun activities to help you get fit.
Cycling
For a low impact way to get back in shape, try cycling. The motion of riding a bike targets some bigger muscle groups, helping you burn fat long after your workout is complete. Getting started is super easy. It's been said that once you learn how to ride a bike you never forget. Put that notion to the test, buy a new bike and take it out for a spin in your neighborhood. Other places you can ride include hiking trails or bike paths. Once you get back in the swing of things, join a riding club on a site like Sparkpeople.com or Meetup.com. Also, if you're in for a real challenge, look into joining an organized ride in your area.
More: Beginner Bike Riding Tips
Tennis
Tennis is a total-body workout. Sure, your arms are used to swing the racket, but if the motion is done correctly you will use your core and legs. If you're looking to tone and get in a good amount of cardio then this workout is for you. The repetitious movement with the lightweight racket will tone your arms. You don't need to visit a fancy tennis club to learn the basics. Grab some friends and take a group lesson together.
More: How to Play Tennis: Tips for Beginners
Swimming
Another low impact workout is swimming. In fact, this has been called the most complete workout by several fitness gurus. The gentle resistance water provides can go a long way toward toning your muscles and the breathing techniques can help in developing cardiovascular endurance. If you're not a strong swimmer, take a class to learn the basics. You'll pick up a new life skill and get a great workout at the same time.
More: 10 Swimming Tips for Beginners
Basketball
Basketball combines short bursts of sprinting along with long game times to offer a workout complete with aerobic and anaerobic fitness. Jumping, running, starting and stopping are all crucial to developing a good fitness regimen. If you're not great at basketball but have the desire to learn, try joining a few pick up games at your local gym or park. Also, if you have a man (or woman) in your life who loves the game, can play and has patience, try asking them to show you how to play. You'll develop a good game and strengthen a friendship or relationship along the way.
More: 45-Minute Basketball Workout
Rowing
Rowing is much like tennis in the fact that both sports are repetitious, builds endurance, and tones your body. Similarly, they both seem to rely heavily on the use of your arms, but again, they are both great for total-body workouts. You can burn up to 800 calories in an hour during a good rowing session. Instead of going to a gym to sit at the rowing machine for an hour, try actually joining a rowing team. Just be sure you are comfortable with the water.
More: Why Runners Should be Rowers
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