A Different Kind of Exercise Challenge

A Different Kind of Exercise Challenge


It’s the beginning of the year, so chances are, there have already been multiple attempts by coworkers, family, and/or friends to recruit you for fitness challenges. Well, we’d also like to extend an invitation, but not one that involves the usual activity trackers, planks, or squats at your desk! For this endeavor, we are suggesting that you spice up your typical workout routine by challenging yourself to try four new activities over the next four weeks!

Why is this a challenge worth pursuing? We don’t need to fill you in on benefits of exercise, generally (you know - better sleep, a boost in mood, bonding with workout mates, improved health and overall quality of life, etc.), but what are the perks of deviating from your standard regimen? Here are a few worth highlighting: You’ll get stronger, work new muscle groups, avoid hitting fitness plateaus, and decrease the potential for unwanted wear and tear on muscles and joints caused by performing the same exercise over and over. But perhaps most importantly, the change of pace will remove the dullness and ignite some FUN! Who knows, you might stumble upon a new activity that you absolutely love or at the very least, get a good laugh out of the adventure!

So grab a co-worker or friend to join you for something such as a new sport, workout class, or dumbbell routine. Gymtimidated? No sweat! (Appropriate pun, right?) Your activity can be something as simple as dancing in the dark by yourself, borrowing a kid’s hula-hoop, or unwinding with a moving meditation - anything that is new and makes you move!

To help you come up with ideas, we’ve included a list below; however, anything goes - use your imagination!  

  • Earthing
  • Self-defense class
  • Qigong
  • Hula-hooping
  • Barre
  • Pilates
  • Bootcamp class
  • Racquetball
  • Hip-hop dance
  • Yoga on the plane
  • Aerial Silks
  • Bollywood Dance
  • Hiking
  • Hopscotch
  • Surfing
  • Kayaking
  • Kickboxing
  • Krav Maga
  • Circuit training
  • Aikido (mindful martial arts)
  • Labyrinth walking meditation
  • Boxing
  • Alexander Technique
  • Belly Dancing
  • Rock Climbing
  • Chi running
  • Paddleboarding
  • Swimming
  • Biking
  • Soccer
  • Barefoot running
  • Zumba
  • A new stretching routine
  • Skateboarding
  • Trail Running
  • Simply Fit Board
  • Tai Chi
  • Slacklining
  • Kundalini Yoga
  • Crossfit
  • Spinning
  • Planks
  • Rebounder/trampoline
  • Salsa dancing
  • Archery
  • Dynamic meditation
  • Tennis
  • Ice skating
  • Water aerobics
  • Treadmill class
  • Bowling

Enjoy the feat, and let the docs know how it goes!



Medical Disclaimer
The information and reference guides in this website are intended solely for the general information for the reader. The contents of this web site are not intended to offer personal medical advice, diagnose health problems or for treatment purposes. It is not a substitute for medical care provided by a licensed and qualified health professional. Please consult your health care provider for any advice on any exercise, medication, nutrition, or supplementation.

Amy Flaherty