If you’re someone who’s confused by the term “fun run” – we’ve got good news! There are plenty of productive ways to exercise and take care of your body, and you don’t have to be a runner to pursue great health. Here are three running alternatives to get you off the treadmill and into something you actually enjoy.

Yoga

It may seem like a trendy thing to do – and if you like trendy things, then sure, it’s that too – but yoga is a really old practice with really amazing health benefits. Physically, yoga stretching helps to relieve tension in your muscles and enhances your sense of balance by working small stabilizer muscles throughout your body. Yoga brings mental health benefits too, helping to ease stress through concentrated breathing and improved awareness. By moving your body intentionally, and checking in with yourself mentally, you’re doing awesome work to improve your whole-body health. If a heart-pounding, lung-busting (sometimes blister-forming) run just isn’t for you, the slow, meditative practice of yoga could be a great option. Hop into the Olympus Steelyard yoga studio for your next heart-opening flow.

Spin Bike

Biking doesn’t have to mean sweating it out on a busy road or spending a lot of money on a fancy ride. You can get a killer workout by jumping on a stationary bike or hopping into a spin class. Notice a sudden burning sensation in your quads? Oh yeah, nothing builds leg strength quite like a good ride! Bonus: Since you’re seated and stationary, it’s a form of exercise that makes it easy to incorporate your choice of entertainment – whether that’s following along with a streaming workout, listening to a hype-up playlist, or queueing up your current binging show. Best of all… it’s not running! Raring to go? Our indoor cycling room is ready for your next ride.

Strength Training

Gone are the days when strength training was for a small, less-than-inviting minority. Today, we recognize that strength training is for everybody and every body. Plus, there’s an infinite number of ways to train – from kettlebells to bodyweight moves to resistance machines – so everyone can find exercises they love. Work your upper body, lower body, or core – it’s all good. However you choose to focus your workouts, you’ll gain functional strength and a boost of confidence to help you greet each day. Finally, lifting is just plain fun. Midnight run? Sounds iffy. Midnight lift? Now we’re talking! You can get your pump on 24/7 at our fully equipped fitness center.

What’s your favorite way to stay active? For more health and fitness articles, nutrition tips, and details on fun local events, make sure to check out the Olympus Steelyard blog.