There is a point in the year when the gym becomes less inviting and cakes start calling from the aisles. It happens around now every year, as the weather gets a little chillier and we all get a little lazier.

To add to that gyms don't come cheap and working out in front of a bunch of people can be daunting. The look of all the gym bunnies sweating away may make you want to crawl into the inside of a donut but there are ways to avoid the muscle maniacs while getting fit.

Change your mode of transport for a start. It sounds like a bit of a cliché but walking that extra mile or cycling to work can be the difference between eating or avoiding that cookie. Going for a bit of a jog in the morning is also a great way to get the exercise out of the way and wake yourself up for the day ahead. Just 20 minutes running a day will be enough to have you fit as a fiddle (why would a string instrument be fit? Anyone?)

Take up an active hobby. Try rock climbing or dancing. Rock climbing or other outdoor pursuits are a great way to have fun, challenge yourself and get fit at the same time. Dancing classes are one a great way to develop some rhythm, skill and get fit. Try a salsa or merengue class with a friend for a weekly get together and giggle, tone up (and you may even meet your own John Travolta at a class.) Pineapple studios have a great variety of classes for all levels. Take a look at the timetable here.

Get yourself an exercise ball and enjoy learning new ways to use it to maximise fitness, strength and flexibility. Using an exercise ball for toning your stomach works those abs a lot harder than standard sit ups. Lifting the ball with your ankles while lying on the floor tines abs and inner thighs. There are also some great pilates exercises that use a ball. Try some of these for ideas.

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