And let’s face it, going to the gym or going for a run is not only hard work, it is also flippin’ boring. So what if there was a way for you to get fit, lose weight, AND enjoy yourself? Wouldn’t that be great? Well there is. In fact there are a whole host of different ways that you can get exercising whilst having fun, and personal trainer course provider Body Aidhave put together five of their favourites below.

Attend a Boot Camp

When you hear the phrase ‘Boot Camp’ it may be the thought of military drill sergeants yelling “Go faster you maggot” that spring to mind rather than having any kind of fun.

However, although unquestionably physically demanding, boot camps can be incredibly enjoyable to take part in. You’ll get to meet new people, work with motivated trainers who will encourage you all the way and you will definitely shed some serious pounds.

The Wolf Run

Remember when you were a kid and you’d play in mud and lakes for hours on end, just running around like a lunatic? Well the Wolf Run, lets you relive those crazy childhood days.

Based in Warwickshire and comprising of approximately 10km of natural and man-made obstacles, the Wolf Run puts the fun back into running, presenting its participants with an event that is as challenging as it is enjoyable.

Like with a fun run, it is all about the taking part, and it is also a great activity for a work bonding day.

Join a Dance Class/Sports Club

If you’re looking for something you can do on a weekly basis then signing up for a dance class or sports team is a great way of getting some exercise that doesn’t necessarily feel like exercise.

You’ll meet new people, perhaps even learn a new skill, but best of all you’ll be improving your fitness and losing weight at the same time! Depending on where you live, there will be all kinds of dance lessons available, be it Zumba, Salsa or Street dance, while most UK towns will also have some sort of amateur sports league at a local leisure centre or sports facility.

Pole Dancing Classes

One for the ladies perhaps, but it is a hobby that is becoming increasingly popular with people looking to find a new and fun way to exercise. They are designed for women of all shapes and sizes, and because ‘looking sexy’ has absolutely nothing to do with it, you only have to worry about having fun.

A fantastic all-body as well as cardio workout, pole dancing lessons will leave you fitter and more toned. 

Parkour/Free Running

Parkour (or Free Running as it is also known) turns urban environments into sprawling obstacle courses and playgrounds. Although it takes years of training and dedication to master the art, beginners’ classes are available all over the country, teaching the basics of Parkour while also helping to improve fitness and range of movement.

It represents a unique and fun take on more traditional keep-fit methods.

Those of you that have read my blog will know that I’ve recently signed up to a weekly 5k run. It’s a not for profit organisation that helps to organise free weekly timed 5km runs around the country. These take place every Saturday morning and it’s also really helping with my training routine. Our times at the moment are ok but there’s room for improvement.

Back to the article, ways to help improve your running in four easy steps. Do you ever feel you’re dragging yourself outside to run? Or maybe your times are getting worse rather than better? Follow these four simple steps and we’ll help you get back on track and improve your running performance.

1. Join a running club

If you aren’t already a member of a club you should consider joining one. Motivation is a massive thing for me and running with others is a great way to keep you motivated. You can also learn a lot about running from some of the more experienced runners in the club. I’m not in a running club but I do go running with friends.

2. Set some running goals

Why do you run? Is it just for regular exercise, get or stay in shape or to lose weight? Are you running an event like a marathon soon? Setting specific goals for a weekly or monthly target will also help you stay motivated.

3. Look in your fridge

For those of you that are running to lose weight and are not seeing the results you should be. How many times have you heard the phrase ‘you are what you eat?’. Well it’s true and your diet may well be affecting all the hard work you’re putting in at the gym or out on the track. If you want to see some real and deserved results then take a quick look in your fridge.

4. Track your runs in a log

If you don’t know where you are at, how will you know where you’re going? If you record your runs, this gives you something to compare and you may be surprised at how much progress you’ve already made. I’m currently using a Nike+ SportBand and it provides excellent motivation for me. It tracks my time, pace and calories from every run. If you’re not tracking your runs in a log, then give it a try.

All the best folks and please keep us posted about your results!