Do you want to get in better physical shape, but hate the high costs of a gym membership and the intimidating atmosphere of big sweaty guys grunting over weights?

Don’t worry; belonging to a gym is not the only way that you can get your exercise fix.

There are many ways that you can get in great shape without ever having to set foot in a gym.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Go Jogging

You don’t need a fancy treadmill when the only equipment you need to get a great cardio workout is attached to the ends of your legs!

Strap on your running shoes, put a great song on your iPod and hit the trails for an invigorating power walk or jog.

Besides, you will have a much more interesting view than just the backside of the person on the other treadmill in front of you!

Play a Game

Get together a few friends for a game of baseball, basketball, football, or soccer.

Make it a challenge by making a bet, like the losing team has to buy a round of drinks for the winning team the next time you go out on the town together.

Running around catching and kicking a ball is a great cardio workout and you will also be able to enjoy some fun time with your friends.

Jump in the Pool

Swimming is an excellent full body workout, because you are using all of your muscles at once in their full range of motion.

Also, the water provides a natural resistance to your movements so that it is more challenging.

Most swimming pools at local community centers only cost a few dollars for a swim and many even offer cheap memberships.

Hit the Library

Did you know that you can rent videos from your library for free?

This also includes exercise DVDs which you can use to do yoga, Pilates, Zumba, martial arts, or any other type of fitness class in the privacy of your own home.

The advantage is that you can follow along with the workout in private at home so that you are not embarrassed by your uncoordinated moves in a crowded classroom.

These are just a few ways that you can get your exercise in without having to join a gym.

Now get out there and get active!