They say that you should have three hobbies: one to make you money, one to express your creativity and one to keep you in shape. Whether you have three hobbies or one that covers all three bases, it’s safe to say that hobbies are essential for keeping our minds and bodies happy and healthy. Of course, it also helps if they boost your bank balance, too! But when it comes to finding a fitness hobby, many people shy away from the idea of “traditional” workouts.
This may be because hitting the gym can often be seen as something that only athletic types do. Fortunately, there are plenty of amazing hobbies that will keep you fit and healthy without buying lots of equipment or even having to step foot inside a gym!
Foraging
Foraging is a super fun and fulfilling way to spend a few hours. Not only does it get you outside and moving around, but it also enables you to learn about nature and the world around us. Of course, there is the added benefit of a reduced shopping bill as well! Model Kelly Brook has been known to don a pair of wellies and forage for mushrooms, proving that anyone can take up the hobby with a little knowledge and know-how.
There are plenty of other benefits of foraging, such as:
- Learning a new skill
- Spending time in nature
- Calming the mind
- Eating nutritious food
- Keeping you active
So, why not try spending your weekend foraging for elder flower, nettle or dandelions? You might be surprised by what you find in your local area!
Horse riding
If you have a love of animals and a passion for adventure, then horse riding might be the hobby for you. Not only is it a great way to connect with animals, but it is also a fantastic way to explore the great outdoors while toning your whole body at the same time.
Horse riding is proven to have many physical and mental benefits, such as improvements in:
- Coordination
- Core strength
- Muscle tone and flexibility
- Quick decision making
- Posture
These benefits make horse riding an incredibly appealing hobby, particularly as it helps you to keep in shape!
Wild swimming
Wild swimming is quickly becoming one of the most popular outdoor hobbies in the world. Essentially, it involves swimming in ponds, lakes, rivers and oceans rather than in a chlorinated swimming pool. Actor and comedian David Walliams is often credited with bringing the hobby into the spotlight following his 140-mile swim of the River Thames, as well as his attempt to cross the English Channel. So, why are so many people plunging into freezing cold oceans and rivers instead of a warm indoor pool?
Well, it turns out that there are many scientific benefits to swimming outside in cold water, such as:
- Improvement in circulation
- Building the immune system
- Reducing stress through the release of endorphins
- Boosting metabolism
- Calming the mind
This combination of factors makes wild swimming an irresistible way to relax the mind while energizing the body. Think of it as a moving meditation. Plus, you get the added bonus of exploring to seek out new places to swim!
Circus skills
Once thought of as a place for contortionists and elephants, the circus is having a big moment in the world of hobbies. From juggling and hula hooping to aerial skills such as the trapeze, people everywhere are starting to realize the benefits of learning a cool skill while staying in shape. Fashion designer Sadie Frost has often touted the benefits of flying on the trapeze, while Grace Jones has performed hula hooping at many of her concerts.
Circus skills have plenty of advantages for the mind and body, including:
- Improving coordination
- Speeding up one’s reflexes
- Improving concentration
- Teaching you how to deal with problems in small chunks
- Building self-confidence
- Calming the mind
The best part of learning circus skills is that they are super fun! Anyone can pick up a few juggling balls and challenge herself to learn a certain number of tosses. It’s a great way to keep the mind and body active while having a whole bunch of fun in the process.
So, which hobby are you going to try out next?
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