Unpopular opinion…. I don’t like gyms. It is quite intimidating to me. My opinion could change with time but for now, I don’t like gyms. So I looked into other alternatives to stay fit. I did some digging and found these activities.
Some of you might share the same sentiment as me…… this comparison is for you.
Pilates
Okay, so Pilates might sound a bit gym-y, but trust me, it’s totally different (I think).
Think of it as a fun way to build core strength without all the heavy lifting (or the intimidating gym bros). But Pilates is more than just core work. It’s a full-body workout that emphasizes controlled movements, precise breathing, and engaging your muscles including your abs, lower back, and pelvic floor. It’s amazing for flexibility, improving balance, and even relieving back pain.
Mat Pilates – This is recommended for beginners and is considered the most common type. It is done on a mat with minimal equipment. It’s a great starting point.
Reformer Pilates – This uses a specialized machine called a reformer, which adds resistance and challenge to the exercises. It’s often done in a studio with a certified instructor.
I found a great place for Pilates… Barressential. I haven’t tried it out yet, but I have friends who have. They love this place. I will try it out soon, cause it looks really fun and seems like a great way to stay fit.
Website – https://www.barressential.com/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/barressential
I reached out to them and found out the rates for you if you want to give it a try. Barressential recommends that (if you are a beginner) you start with their barre/mat pass and do Core Mat Pilates, Barre Signature, and Stretch + Flow classes first. The next level up would be to try Fusion. After that, you can move on to reformer pilates, starting with a fundamentals class.
| Barre & Mat Pilates (In studio) | Barre & Mat Pilates (Virtual) | Reformer Pilates (In studio only) | |
| New client 5 class pack | LKR 5000 | LKR 3000 | LKR 7500 |
| Drop in (single class) | LKR 2300 | LKR 1000 | LKR 3500 |
| Off-peak drop in (single class) | – | – | LKR 2750 |
| 4 class pack | LKR 7800 | LKR 3600 | LKR 12,000 |
| Off-peak 4 class pack | – | – | LKR 10,000 |
| 8 class pack | LKR 12,800 | LKR 6600 | LKR 22,000 |
| Off-peak 8 class pack | – | – | LKR 18,000 |
| 12 class pack | LKR 18,000 | – | LKR 30,000 (Valid for 2 months) |
| 16 class pack | – | – | LKR 38,000 (Valid for 2 months) |
| Monthly unlimited | LKR 18,000 | LKR 10,000 | – |
| 6 months unlimited | LKR 90,000 | – | – |
| Annual unlimited | LKR 144,000 | – | – |
YOGA
I’ve tried yoga a couple of times with friends but haven’t really ventured into the world of yoga yet. From the little I experienced, I think it’s one of the most accessible and rewarding ways to get fit and find some inner peace.
The beautiful thing about yoga is that it’s so versatile. It’s not a one-size-fits-all kind of thing. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stretch or a more challenging workout to build strength and endurance, there’s a style for you.
Yoga improves flexibility, balance, and strength. It can reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and even boost your mood. Plus, imagine doing it outside in nature – talk about a mood booster! So the biggest plus about Yoga is you can do it anywhere.
You can start with a beginner class or explore some online videos. The most important thing is to listen to your body and find a style that resonates with you.
I found a beginner-friendly virtual yoga class which looks like a good place to start. It’s called Yoga Studio and here is the information they shared with me.
Website – https://www.yogastudio.lk/classes-and-fees/
All their lessons are done online only (through Zoom) and they focus on women’s well-being. All the classes are beginner-friendly. They have morning and evening classes. Morning classes are more gentle and relaxing and are a healing practice for the body and the mind. Evening classes are for weight loss, body toning, strengthening the body, and healing the body from all types of diseases. For a beginner, they suggest 2 or 3 classes a week. So 8 or 12 lessons per month. You can choose according to your personal preference.
Things you will be needing for Yoga;
Monthly packages
You have the flexibility to blend classes from both Vinyasa and Hatha yoga options.
| 8 classes | LKR 5800 |
| 12 classes | LKR 6800 |
| 16 classes | LKR 7800 |
| Unlimited | LKR 8800 |
Boxing
Alright, let’s talk boxing. It’s a seriously effective and surprisingly fun way to get in shape. If you’re looking for a workout that’ll push you physically and mentally, boxing might just be your new obsession.
Let’s be real, the idea of boxing can be a little intimidating. Images of bruised faces and intense sparring sessions might flash through your mind. But here’s the thing, boxing for fitness is a whole different thing. It’s about building strength, improving cardiovascular health, and becoming the toughest version of yourself – without necessarily getting punched in the face.
A place I found that had excellent reviews is “Boxing Academy LK” in Colombo. Honestly, the reviews here were great. People kept saying how great it is, they said the trainers were really good, they actually cared about helping you get better, and that the workouts were super effective. Even people who usually hate gyms said they loved it there. It sounds like a place where you can actually have fun while getting a killer workout, and that’s exactly what we are looking for!
I reached out to them and got the different packages they offer.
| Bronze Pack | Silver Pack | Gold Pack |
| LKR 18,000 | LKR 25,500 | LKR 34,000 |
| 8 sessions per month | 12 sessions per month | 16 sessions per month |
| Fitness Assessment (QTLY) | All Bronze Pack benefits | Fitness assessment (BIMON) |
| Limited Gym Access | Weight loss plan | Training goals |
| Community Group Chat | Merchandise discounts | Open gym access |
Website – https://boxingacademylk.com/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/boxingacademylk/
So, if you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding workout that’s anything but boring, give boxing a try. You might just surprise yourself!
Running, walking and Hiking
Sometimes the simplest things are the best. And when it comes to fitness, running, walking, and hiking definitely fit that bill. They’re natural, they’re adaptable, and they’re incredibly good for you. The beauty of these activities lies in their accessibility – you don’t need fancy equipment or expensive memberships. Just lace up your shoes, step out the door, and you’re good to go. All three of these are fantastic options, especially if you’re looking for fitness that’s both effective and easy on the wallet.
Running
Running is a high-impact, calorie-burning workout. It’s a fantastic way to improve cardiovascular health, build endurance, and clear your head.
Walking
Don’t underestimate the power of a good walk! It’s a low-impact activity that’s perfect for people of all fitness levels. Walking can improve your mood, boost your energy, and even help you lose weight.
Hiking
For those who love the great outdoors, hiking is a fantastic way to combine fitness with adventure. Sri Lanka is blessed with a diverse range of hiking trails in many parts of the country. Hiking not only provides a great workout but also allows you to connect with nature and enjoy breathtaking views.
The Best Part? The Minimal Cost.
One of the biggest advantages of running, walking, and hiking is that they’re incredibly budget-friendly. Aside from the cost of shoes and clothing, the only real expense you’ll incur is the cost of traveling to your chosen location. If you want to run around your neighborhood, there are no travel costs at all. For a hike, you might have to travel to a location, but that’s it. This makes them perfect for anyone looking to stay fit without breaking the bank. You can explore the beautiful landscapes of Sri Lanka without having to pay for expensive gym memberships or classes.
So, there you have it. A whole bunch of ways to get moving and feel good, without ever stepping foot in a gym. Remember, fitness isn’t about fitting into a mold, it’s about finding what makes you feel alive and energized. Don’t be afraid to try new things and experiment until you find your perfect fit.
Now go out there and have some fun!
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