Beyond the Gym: Creative Ways to Get Active
By Alexa Norris and Benjamin Szweda

Here is a list to jog your memory of the great activities that you may have done as a kid. If you are bored of the gym, remember that you can get a workout in other ways. These ideas will get you started, and there are plenty more out there to investigate as well.

Baseball: When was the last time you and your friends headed to the nearest baseball diamond? You also can simply go to the park to throw the ball around.

Basketball: Go to your neighborhood school if you do not have a hoop in your driveway. Pick-up games also allow you to make new friends while in the process of getting fit.

Beach Activities: Northeast Ohio has numerous beaches, and just walking in the sand is a good workout. Add to that the option to jog, swim, play volleyball or throw a Frisbee.

Bike: While the weather is still warm, ditch the stationary cycle and hit the pavement. No need for a fancy set of wheels to check out the Cleveland Metroparks' paths or the Cuyahoga Valley Towpath, where rentals are available.

Capture the Flag: Young or old, a classic game of capture the flag is always something to consider. Whether you are in the Cleveland Metroparks or at a friend's house, this game is sure to get your heart pumping.

Driving Range: Whether you are blowing off steam after a day at work or practicing your game for an end-of-season tournament, the driving range is an excellent place to end the day. Tired of paying for that bucket of balls? Buy yourself a couple dozen golf balls and head to the Cleveland Metroparks. You may not be able to show off with your driver, but at least you can practice chipping.

Frisbee: A great form of exercise and a bonding experience for you and your dog. Want to bond with your two-legged friends instead? Challenge them to a game of “Ultimate Frisbee.”

Golf: There are plenty of public golf courses around. Not ready for 18 yet? Go for nine or at least set some records on your local put-put course. Leave the golf cart behind – you will save on gas and money, and get more exercise.

Hiking: Within the Cleveland Metroparks (Cleveland's “emerald necklace”) are endless places to take a nature walk with friends and family. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.

Jump Rope: If you think this is just for kids, pick one up and see the amazing workout it gives you. How many tricks can you learn to impress your friends?

Kayak/Canoe: Grab a friend and head out to the islands on Lake Erie for a day. At Put-in-Bay, boat rentals are available. Or try the Cuyahoga River. Remember to check the weather forecast as you should not go out in rough water or inclement weather.

Mowing the Lawn/Raking Leaves/Weeding: It may not seem like your typical workout, but these can prove to be very good exercise. Not a big yard? Offer to help out others in your neighborhood by mowing their grass, too.

Rollerblading: This is a great workout for the legs and arms, and it is another activity that is perfect for the Cleveland Metroparks, around your block or in a different neighborhood.

Run or Walk: This can be done anywhere and anytime, of course. But there are some interesting ways to approach it. For example, visit a museum or the zoo, or take a stroll through a unique neighborhood, such as Tremont, Ohio City, University Circle or Little Italy. If walking solo is too lonely for your liking, take your dog along. Also consider tackling two problems at once by walking or running a 5K in support of a charity.

Soccer: Local parks and schools have wide-open fields just waiting for you to run and practice your dribbling skills. Grab a few friends for a game.

Strength Workout: If you do not have the proper equipment at home or just want to get out in the open air, the “monkey bars” at the local playground offer an excellent way to integrate chin-ups, shoulder shrugs and hanging-leg lifts. Wrap your legs around them and give yourself an amazing hanging abdominal workout, too. You may also find low tree branches to use for the same purpose.

Surfing: When you think Cleveland, you probably do not automatically think of surfing. Although Lake Erie may not sport huge waves, plenty of vacation spots do. Renting a board and taking lessons with the family is a good way to exercise together.

Swimming: This one of the best full-body workouts. If you do not have access to a pool, the waters of Lake Erie are always available.

Tennis: This great cardiovascular sport can get expensive when paying for a club membership, so consider utilizing your local high school's or the city's courts. No partner? Work on mastering your serve. It will pay off the next time you play against a friend.

Trampoline: Although it may seem like an activity primarily for kids, the trampoline is great fun for all ages. It gives you a great full-body workout, and it is extremely fun and stress relieving.

Consult your physician before begining any exercise program.