6 Ways to Make Working Out Fun (and Affordable)

Let’s face it—no one likes working out. It’s dull and uncomfortable. After it’s done, you feel like plumber who’s just finished a grueling shift at the coliseum, and the first thought that enters your mind is I’m never going to do that again.

But then you start to feel good. The endorphins released through the skin, your brain pumped with oxygen, last night’s pasta dinner atoned through a respectable calorie-loss. As humans, we need exercise. But sometimes the boringness of it all overrides our desire to do it. Wouldn’t it be nice if working out was fun, every time? If you’ve ever wanted an alternative to mundane, conventional exercise equipment, then check out these ways to make working out fun.  

Zumba

Have you ever wondered why kids are so skinny? Well, some. It’s because they like to have fun being active. The Zumba workout is the adult’s version of a youthful outing. It’s been around since the early nineties and over the years has amassed a following of 14 million. On the Zumba website, it says, “Ditch the workout, join the party.” And that’s the philosophy behind the whole thing.

You can sign up for classes and shop at Zumba.com. The classes are said to be full of energy and personality, but you can get the same feeling by utilizing their fully-integrated workout systems—which include DVDs and fitness accessories—through the online shop. Packages start at just $49.95, which is probably a whole lot cheaper than a class. If you’ve ever wanted to combine dance and aerobics into a full-fledged fun time, you can get 10% off orders at Zumba at the moment.

Indo Board

Your favorite TV show is on, you don’t want to work out, but you have to work out. It’s a situation we’ve all found ourselves in one time or another.

You’ve probably heard about the Indo Board. My roommate has one and I hijack it all the time. Frankly, it’s just a whole ton of fun. It engages your muscles through challenging balance training, and it builds your legs’ strength and gets your blood flowing. It takes a little getting used to but once you do, it’s like riding a bike. The lowest price online comes from Sears, where you can currently get free shipping and $5 off.

Kangoo Jumps

If you’ve ever dreamed of being a kangaroo or a monkey (and God knows we all have), Kangoo Jumps make that dream a reality. Although you won’t technically be a monkey, you’ll certainly fly like one. It’s plyometrics in a fun way, taking away most of the impact of running and jumping. Just from the picture you can induce it’s much like a trampoline—bouncy as all heck. Make a little investment for the sake of your workout fun at eBay, where you can purchase a pair for $150.

ACE FitKit

A 2003 Harvard study suggested that two hours in front of the television increases your risk of obesity by 23%. I spend two hours in front of the TV every day, and I’m starting to get Trucker’s Gut. It’s a medical condition that involves having rolls of blubber where your belly button should be. I’m working on it, but it’d be a whole lot easier with the ACE FitKit.

An instant home gym, the whole package contains a stability ball, a braided resistance band, an 8-lb medicine ball, and a mat. While you watch Dancing with the Stars you can stretch and tone up with this all-in-one.