Exploring Alternative Fitness
I think we’ve all heard, in one way or another, that we should move more. Our society is largely sedentary. Most jobs don’t provide enough movement, and our daily lives often don’t either. To get movement in, we usually have to go out of our way.
If you’re anything like me, the idea of trekking to the gym 3–5 times per week can feel overwhelming to the point of paralysis—which usually means I don’t go. While I’ve had brief stints of gym attendance, the culture and “peopling” of a traditional gym doesn’t appeal to me. I always feel like I’m being watched (even though I know I’m not), and it makes me self-conscious. I hold back, and I don’t get a good workout. It’s just not a good fit for me. So, what now? Should I just give up?
I think not.
Traditional exercise has its place, and it works. For this article, I’m defining traditional fitness as gym workouts, walking, running, biking, lifting weights, yoga—things along those lines. If that’s your thing, and it brings you joy, keep going. The fact that you’ve found your movement sweet spot is amazing. I applaud you.
I have a small treadmill at home, and I enjoy walking outside during late fall, winter, and early spring. The crisp air makes me happy. Inside, I can “habit stack” my walk with an episode of a show. But while walking is great, I know my body also craves higher-intensity cardio.
2020 was supposed to be “the year of me.” When the pandemic canceled those plans, I started searching online for fitness classes. I never quite found the right fit—until I stumbled upon Les Mills. They offer classes in gyms around the world, but I’ve only done their online workouts. I love the instructors, the music, and the way the classes are structured. If I don’t like a particular move, it only lasts a few minutes.
My favorite is Body Combat. It blends movements from various martial arts into a cohesive, powerful workout. While full classes are 55 minutes, they also offer shorter versions—around 45, 30, and even 20 minutes—so it can fit into almost any schedule. I love that. It keeps my excuses in check.
Finding Body Combat also made me think more about alternatives to traditional fitness. Most “normal” workouts don’t keep my interest for long. Even if I’m excited at first, I lose motivation and stop. If you take one thing from this, let it be that consistency is key—not just for fitness, but for most things in life.
Martial arts have always intrigued me, and fitness-based versions have held my interest for years. They make me want to research different disciplines and maybe take a class rooted in the real thing. That mental engagement—moving and learning—lights me up.
When I was younger, I took dance classes and absolutely loved them. I didn’t think of it as exercise—it was just fun. I’ve recently started looking into adult dance classes again. I’ve tried before, but I’ve never quite found the right fit. I want something not quite beginner, but still approachable and challenging enough to make me sweat. A lot of what I’ve found feels more like social time with simple movements, which isn’t what I’m after.
A newer option I’m curious about is bungee fitness. I haven’t taken a class yet, but a friend of mine loves it. You’re strapped into a bungee harness, which gives you high-effort, low-impact movement. It looks fun, and I’m excited to try it.
Another one high on my list is aerial silks. I’ve always loved Cirque du Soleil and used to dream of performing with them. While that’s probably not in my future, it doesn’t mean I can’t learn some of the moves! I love how people are now thinking outside the box when it comes to fitness. Aerial classes used to feel exclusive, but they’re more accessible now—and they sound like a perfect blend of creativity and physical challenge.
I’ve tried barre fitness too. It’s ballet-inspired and a serious leg workout. I liked it, especially the Les Mills version at home, but it didn’t quite connect with me. To leave the house and take a class, I need to really love the activity. Still, I’d recommend giving it a try if you haven’t—it might just be your thing.
Two other options I’m curious about, though I haven’t tried them yet, are pole fitness and hula fitness. I don’t know much about either, but I’d love to take at least three classes of each to get a true feel for them. One class isn’t enough for me to decide, especially when nerves might get in the way.
So, what about you?
What alternative fitness idea appeals to you most—and why?
