10 free ways to burn kilojoules that don’t feel like working out

SO YOU want to move around more, without feeling chained to the gym? Here are some fun ways to burn kilojoules, and they’re free ...

SO YOU don’t exactly have the bank account to swing surfing lessons or a snowboarding trip, but you still want to move more — without feeling chained to the gym?

Not to worry, there are loads of ways to burn calories that won’t cost you a cent, especially if you’re willing to rummage through your garage or basement first.

Here are a few of our favourite free ways to move more.

Note: All calorie counts are approximate and based on a 68-kilogram person.

Tackle chores

It’s precisely no one’s favourite method of working up a sweat, but housework is not to be overlooked. Sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, mowing the lawn and other items on your to-do list can burn anywhere from 418 to 837 kilojoules in 30 minutes.

Go on, that housework is good for you!

Dance

All you have to do is turn on the tunes and shake it. Thirty minutes can knock off 640kjs.

Play tag

It’s like running — in disguise! The little ones in your life will relish a chance to get active with you, and you can burn nearly 628kjs in 30 minutes while you’re at it.

Go for a hike

Head to the hills! Thirty minutes in nearby public parkland can shed more than 1117kjs. Even if you just hike cross-country rather than uphill, you burn 895kjs in 30 minutes. Consider it like your last brisk walk, with better scenery!

Roller blade

You might be a little embarrassed to don your old blades, but if they still fit, 30 minutes can torch 1791kjs.

Roller blading can be fun.

Kick the ball around

You don’t have to shell out for cleats to throw together a casual soccer match. When 30 minutes burns 1046kjs, everybody wins.

Shoot hoops

Make use of that hoop at the nearest park. Just 30 minutes of casual basketball can burn 895kjs.

Go for a swim

Take a dip in at your nearest free public pool or refreshing lake. Thirty minutes of moderate swimming can burn 1046kjs, and even if you keep your splashing around a little more casual, you can still burn 895.

Swimming is great exercise.

Take a bike ride

You don’t have to spend big bucks on flashy gear. Dust off that helmet and take your old bike for a spin. You’ll burn 1192 calories in 30 minutes of moderate riding, and even if you keep your efforts light, you can shed 895kjs in the same amount of time.

Play catch

Just about everyone has an old softball or frisbee in the garage. Grab a partner for a 30-minute toss, and you’ll find yourself down nearly 377kjs.