If we’re talking green businesses, we are certainly not talking commercial gym facilities. Think about it: gyms use an astronomical amount of electricity not just to power all of those treadmills and elliptical machines, but also to provide you with a comfortable air conditioned atmosphere, complete with television screens as far as the eye can see.
So how do we make working out a little more energy efficient? Since not working out is not an option, this exercise nut has put together a list of five swaps you can make to green up your workouts.
1. Workout at home: Working out at home has tons of benefits: there is no excuse to miss your workout since you’re already there, you save time you would have otherwise spent getting the gym, and most importantly, you don’t use any gas in travel. Don’t know where to start? Check out DragonDoor.com for some great kettlebell programs, which combine traditional cardio and weight training for a super effective workout. Or look into the ever popular P90X program.
2. Move your workouts outside: Instead of driving to the gym to run three miles on a treadmill, take your motivation to the great outdoors. Jogging or biking outside will get you a better workout anyway (don’t be afraid of the hills!), and the scenery is infinitely more enjoyable than the inside of any building. For those who are looking to include some weight-training, take a page from the Strongman book and lift heavy stones or carry sandbags across the yard. Of course, do your research beforehand, to ensure proper form.
3. Ride your bike or walk to work: This is a win on all counts. You save money and gas getting to work and you get that heart rate up.
4. Train with free weights: You may still need a gym for this one, but if you’re taking the machine out of the equation, you are helping save electricity. Side note: ladies, do not be afraid of making the swap for free weights. Under no circumstance will you get ever big and bulky, I promise. Free weights get excellent results and conserve energy. How can you go wrong?
5. Join a local team: Look into area teams, you might be surprised at what you can find. Most teams practice outside, cutting out the need for a gym. Another perk? You will be less likely to skip the workout when others are counting on you.
Have you recently made a swap for a greener workout? Are you busy working towards a healthier you? Let us know your workout swapping success stories in the comments section or on our Facebook page to continue the conversation.
(Photo by lululemon athletica)
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