Fun Ways to Burn Calories

While many people enjoy exercise, many of us absolutely hate it. Yeah, we aim for twenty minutes a day just so our butts won’t jiggle or to make sure we’ll keep fitting into the pants we just bought—but it’s definitely on the list of chores rather than treats.

Many of us are constantly on the lookout for some form of exercise that’s going to get our blood pumping and our heart happy without making us feel like we’re taking a mini-break in Hell. Fortunately, there are a few things we can do and enjoy that actually burn calories.

Try hip-hop dancing. Doing an unfamiliar dance like hip-hop, ballet, or salsa will get your body moving and burning calories while you have some fun.

Have sex. They say you won’t burn many calories that way, but if you have sex for half an hour or longer and you’re overweight you’ll burn more calories! Of course, you can also burn calories by avoiding sex…

Watch a movie. You could also listen to music or a book on tape—as long as you’re moving while you do it. Walking (either outside or on a treadmill), using a stationary bike or an elliptical trainer, or even doing sit-ups and push-ups can all be done while the TV or radio is playing.

Take up a sport. From softball to tennis, skiing to skateboarding, you might find something you enjoy. And if you don’t, at least you tried something new!

Walk the escalator. You’ll be able to freak people out while you burn fat. Washing your car and playing with your kids can also provide great exercise.

Eat breakfast and drink ice cold water. People who eat breakfast are more likely to not overeat later, and your body has to actually burn calories to process ice water.

Rearrange your furniture. That’s definitely a workout—and many of us have fun doing it! (The next time your spouse complains, say you’re doing it for your health.)

Organize a club. Working out can be much more fun in a group. You can do a different activity every time you meet, from ballroom dancing to an aerobics class, or just walk together.

Go shopping! Just skip the pretzels and cinnamon treats and go for the long walk. Park far away if you can (don’t do it if you are alone and it’s at night) to go for a longer walk.