The 10 Smartest Workouts to Help You Get Fit

10 Smartest Workouts 

The first step to becoming fit is to figure out which exercise routine will work best for you and your schedule. What’s best for one person may not be the best option for another, so there’s no one-size-fits-all workout plan. By exploring the different types of workouts, you can select the right workout plan based on your needs and lifestyle. Here are 10 smart workouts that will get you on your way to being fit in no time!

1) Running

Is it really true that running is good for your brain? In a word, yes. University of Colorado researchers recently found that runners scored significantly higher on cognitive tests than non-runners—even after controlling for gender, education and other lifestyle factors.

2) Swimming

Swimming is a great exercise because it works your entire body without placing too much stress on any one muscle group. Your shoulders and arms get a nice workout while your abdomen and lower back are put through their paces. And with all that use, you’ll burn fat more quickly than in other exercises, but only if you keep it up consistently. So if you have time for only one workout, make it swimming! This is a wonderful exercise when performed regularly.

3) Boxing

This full-body workout is a great combination of strength training and cardio. The hand-eye coordination involved in punching drills also improves your focus, which helps sharpen your memory. And since many people consider boxing an intense sport, you’ll burn more calories than you would running or biking during these workouts. Grab a pair of gloves, lace up those sneakers and let’s get started!

4) Cycling

Did you know that cycling burns twice as many calories as running, despite being only half as hard on your joints? That’s because cycling works all of your muscles—your quads, hamstrings, glutes and calves in addition to your heart and lungs. Cycling also raises both metabolism and serotonin levels, making you feel happier throughout the day. And not only does cycling build muscle, it helps relieve stress. Better yet: You can find a stationary bike at most gyms for under $100.

5) Yoga

Yoga is great for stretching and flexibility, as well as helping with muscle balance. If you’re just starting out, it’s best to find a class before trying on your own. Yoga studios offer plenty of free classes in case you aren’t sure if it’s for you.

6) Strength Training

Research shows that weight-bearing exercises—like lifting weights and bodyweight training—can protect your bones and muscles as you age. Strength training can also boost your brain power. Working out with weights or doing bodyweight exercises increases levels of a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF, in your brain, according to research from Harvard Medical School (HMS). BDNF helps support neuron growth and repair in areas of your brain related to memory.

7) Rowing

The idea of exercising on a rowing machine may seem mundane and boring, but give it a chance. Rowing is one of those rare exercises that almost anyone can do, no matter your fitness level. Unlike most other machines, it hits all major muscle groups in just one move. If you’re not convinced already, check out our guide on why rowing machines are awesome.​

8) Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

MMA is a no-holds-barred fighting sport that combines multiple disciplines—including kickboxing, boxing, and judo—into one brutal workout. MMA training focuses on interval training and high resistance workouts; these help build muscle strength while still allowing you to lose weight. In fact, fighters don’t just get fit while they train; they also keep their bodies toned even when they’re not preparing for a fight.

9) Skating or Rollerblading

Rollerblading gets you out of your chair and onto your feet, which burns more calories than any workout while still providing a level of inactivity. Rollerblading also offers an aerobic workout, building endurance and muscle strength with every stride. There’s no reason why rollerblading shouldn’t be considered one of the best workouts for weight loss!

10) Chin-Ups and Push-Ups

When you do chin-ups, your back muscles—especially in your upper back and shoulders—are working hard. When you do push-ups, your chest muscles are working hard. Because of their big muscle involvement, these exercises force more blood into your head, making it easier for your brain to get oxygenated blood. They also fire up your nervous system in a major way so that they’re an efficient workout when it comes to burning calories.