10 Workout Ideas For The Black Woman Who Hates The Gym
Nothing irritates me more than a packed gym at the beginning of a new year or any time. Yes, I'm glad everyone is taking charge of their health, but do we all have to do it at the same gym simultaneously? There is something intensely irritating to me about having to drive myself to a gym, sign in, wait for a machine, and suffer through small talk with weight experts. I prefer to work out in solitude or with a small class while enjoying the absence of clanking machines, sweat aromas, constant chit-chatter, and lackluster playlists.
If you are a gym head, no disrespect - everything isn't for everybody. But if you share my sentiments, then keep reading.
While trying to get to know myself, I've also discovered which form of exercise keeps me interested, all while working my mind and body. Self-care has everything to do with caring for your body, and BWFS is heavy on maintaining excellent health. If you are looking for ways to expand your exercise regimen but don't want to necessarily commit to a gym because of the reasons I listed above and more, check out a list of alternative exercises that you may find both productive and fun.
10 Workout Ideas For the Anti-Gym Black Woman
Pole Dancing: Pole dancing is a fun and empowering workout that helps build strength, flexibility, and confidence. Yes, you will do this in a class setting, but it will probably be far from a gym atmosphere, and you can make it into a cute girl's weekly workout.
Hula Hooping: Hula hooping is an exciting and productive way to work your core muscles and improve coordination. It can be done with a regular or weighted hula hoop for added resistance.
Trampoline Fitness: Trampoline workouts are low-impact and fun. They help improve cardiovascular fitness, balance, and coordination.
Walking: Walking is a simple and effective exercise that can be done anywhere. It helps improve cardiovascular health, strengthen leg muscles, and boost mood.
Cycling: Cycling can be done outdoors or on a stationary bike. It helps improve cardiovascular health, leg strength, and endurance.
Yoga: Yoga is a great exercise focusing on flexibility, strength, and balance. It can help improve posture, reduce stress, and increase body awareness. You can find a yoga class on YouTube or sign up for a virtual yoga class here.
Pilates: Pilates is centered around core strength, flexibility, and body alignment. It helps improve posture, balance, and muscle tone.
Dance Workouts: Dancing is an enjoyable and effective way to stay active at home. You can follow along with dance workout videos or create a dance routine independently. Dancing helps improve cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and mood.
Jumping Rope: Jumping rope is a simple cardio exercise that can be done indoors or outdoors. It helps improve cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and leg strength.
Bodyweight Exercises: Bodyweight exercises require no equipment and can be done anywhere. Examples include squats, lunges, push-ups, planks, and burpees. These exercises help build strength and improve overall fitness.
Remember, excellent health starts with monitoring what you put in your body, what you feed your mind, great rest, and radical self-care. Exercise is secondary.
Here's to a healthy 2024 that doesn't require us to step one foot in the gym!
- Samjah Iman