Have Fun While
Burning Calories

By Mellisa Hoffman

   Contrary to popular belief, burning calories can be a lot of fun. Turn “work” into “play” and have a good time sweating off unwanted pounds. The trick is finding something you really enjoy doing.

   Winter can be the hardest time to find something enjoyable to do. However, there’s no grass to be mowed, no hedges to be trimmed, no leaves to rake, so you might as well play! Build a snowman, make snow angels, or have a snowball fight. For each hour spent outside you can burn around 300 calories. Or, for the rare few of you who just like to shovel the driveway, you can burn around 400 calories each hour.

   If none of those options interest you, look into joining a gym or some kind of community center. You’ll find a wide variety of opportunities. Don’t be afraid to try something completely new. It may become your favorite activity. And if you want to improve your skills, look into taking a class or hiring a personal trainer or instructor.

   If you enjoy spending time alone, find an activity that will accommodate that, but if you are competitive or like being with other people, join a team or just take a friend along.

   Some options you may never have thought of are:

   • Karate • Dancing
   • Pilates • Zumba, etc.

   Or . . . go swimming, play racquetball, or learn how to rock climb. The options are limitless, so whatever you choose to do, choose to have fun!