Everyone wants to be healthy and in their best shape. It’s kind of hard to enjoy the process of getting there, though, when all we do are the same activities over and over, which we don’t always even enjoy. There are so many other things to try than just going to the gym that are also super fun and can be done with friends. Here are, in my opinion, some of the best activities around:

1. Boxing

There are so many benefits to this workout. It reduces stress, builds muscle and is great cardio. A plus, too, is that many gyms offer beginner classes and even have the equipment needed to get started. Another plus is that many gyms will offer discounts to students.

2. Snowboarding/skiing

This is one of the most fun things you can do. Yes, it gets a bit expensive when you add up your lift ticket price and the cost of renting gear. However, there are plenty of coupons for gear rentals as well as consignment stores that sell gently used winter clothes. As for passes, if you go up to the mountain with someone who has a season pass, you can usually use their pass to get a discount on your own pass. It is still a little expensive, but the fresh air and beautiful views are definitely worth it.

3. Snowshoeing

This one gives you the same beautiful view as skiing, but it is a heck of a lot cheaper. The CSU Rec Center rents out snowshoes and avalanche protection to students for as little as $10, and if you have some warm clothes, you will be set to go. This activity is a stellar workout and the time spent outdoors is unbeatable. 

4. Yoga

People who don’t do yoga just like to make fun of it and say, “It’s just stretching. How hard could it be?” when in reality, it can be very hard, my friends. Does it sound easy to use only your abs to lift yourself into a handstand without any help? Exactly. Seriously, try yoga. It is a lot of stretching, I admit, but it also is a lot of core exercise. It is a milder workout that feels really relaxing while still engaging parts of your body that may not get used very often. You will feel a little sweat and a whole lot of zen once you are finished.

5. Rock climbing

Rock climbing is a serious blast. I am not even very good at it, yet can still vouch for it. It’s so fun to see the progress you make as you learn to climb better and develop strength. The best part is that the CSU climbing wall is free for students. I was so surprised the first time I finished the climbing wall because never had my arms feel more like noodles than after that workout. It’s pretty intense, but makes you feel so accomplished by the end of it that it is hard not to want to do it again and again. 

Collegian Active Lifestyles Blogger Katy Mueller can be reached online at blogs@collegian.com or on Twitter @katymueller13.