Does the thought of being around hundreds of sweaty, stinky humans frazzle your brain? Do you freak out at the idea of making small talk during Zumba class? Is your workout schedule configured to gym times with the least amount of people? If you answered yes to any of these questions, fret not. Below are four fitness alternatives for introverts who hate the gym.
Working out at home can give introverts the quiet, minimally stimulating environments they crave. It allows people to save time, money, and offers freedom. Home gyms allow their owners to use their own equipment. Investing in a gym at home can be quite costly. In reality, it will cost less than years of gym memberships. If money is an issue, start smaller. Don’t try to buy the whole gym set if you can’t afford it. Try exercises that require little to no equipment such as yoga, Pilates, and body weight training.
There are many mental and physical benefits to spending time with Mother Nature. Working out in nature is membership free, provides a dose of vitamin D, and is proven to boost immune systems. According to an article on Better health Channel, walking for just thirty minutes a day can increase Cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, reduce excess body fat, and boost muscle power and endurance. So grab a bottle of water, go for a walk, ride a bike, take a brisk sprint through one of Columbia’s many parks and nature trails. Rent a kayak, or a canoe and go paddling on Lake Murray.
