Have you ever felt like you’d take any excuse to get out of your workout?  So have I!  I love going to the gym and getting a good, hard workout, but there are times when I just don’t feel like exercising.  Sometimes, it’s because it’s too hot outside, other times it’s because I’m bored with my routine, and other times, I’m just feeling lazy and don’t want to make the time.

So, what do you do on those days when you really want to skip your regular workout?  Or what if you hate working out at all?  Well, you don’t have to hit the gym to burn calories and build muscle.  The best way to exercise when you don’t want to is to find ways to stay active that don’t feel like work. Here are some of my favorite ways to be active when I don’t want to go to the gym.

1.  Play with the Dog

What could be more fun than taking your furry friend outside to play?  Tug on rope toys to build wrist, arm, and leg strength.  Chase your buddy around the yard for a fun cardio workout.  Practice hand-eye coordination by snatching the toy from under their nose at just the right time to send your buddy chasing after it.  Play time is good for your dog, and good for you, so go have some fun!

2.  Go Dancing

Dancing is a great way to burn calories and have fun at the same time.  What style will you choose?  Ballroom is a fun way to get to know people since most of the dances are done with two people in close proximity.  Zumba is a great way to get the heart pumping.  If a more classic dance is more your style, try Ballet — it’s a great way to gain strength while floating elegantly sound the room.  There are so many styles of dance from all around the world that there’s bound to be one for all tastes.

3.  Go to the Beach

Well, ok, going to the beach isn’t exactly a good way to get moving if all you do is sit there and read.  However, if you go to the beach to swim, take a walk, play volleyball with friends, or do some other beach related activity, then it’s a great way to have fun and burn some calories.

4.  Learn Something New

Is there something that you’ve always wanted to learn how to do, but you just haven’t done it yet?  If so, why not start taking lessons as a way to do have fun and be active at the same time?  Try your hand at water skiing, or find someone who teaches a martial art you’ve always wanted to learn.

Now that you know how I like to keep myself active when a traditional workout feels like a chore, tell me some of your favorite activities.