Let's Get Physical: Ways to Stay Fit in Korea
Though it’s easy to stay at home all day indulging in Korean snacks, it’s important to maintain a balanced lifestyle—this includes exercise. Exercise isn’t limited to just running on the treadmill or treading on the elliptical. These machines can get boring quickly, and this will only lead to decreased productivity. Instead, here are 4 exercise methods that are popular in Korea!
- Biking along Hangang
Hangang, or the Han River, is the river that runs through Seoul. Surrounding it are bike paths, picnic areas, and jogging tracks, making Hangang a great place to exercise. Not only is biking a good form of cardio, but it also allows you to appreciate the scenic view of the city. It is also a great social activity, so you can spend some quality time (off of your devices!) with your friends.
P.S. If you don’t have a bike, don’t worry! There are several rental bikes available in shops along the river.
- Pilates
One of the most popular forms of exercise among women, pilates is a form of intense core workout that strengthens your abdomen and pelvis. The immense popularity of pilates can be accredited to its relative simplicity. You don’t need to be at a specific fitness level in order to participate in a class! In Korea, it is easy to find pilates studios that offer both month-long subscriptions and one-time classes, which is great if you want to try it out.
- Boxing
Recently, many have been leaning towards boxing as an engaging and invigorating form of exercise. Boxing training not only works all of the different parts of the body but also help you relieve stress. There is no shortage of boxing gyms in Korea, with many offering very affordable subscriptions. In a class, you can expect to do some circuit training for around forty minutes, a WOD (Workout of the Day), and perhaps some sparring with a partner. Regardless of how your gym works, you can expect to be kept on your toes!
- Sports Monster
Sports Monster is a sports entertainment center that offers a myriad of different activities to participants. Equipped with rock climbing walls, trampolines, a high ropes course and more, time flies by when you’re at Sports Monster. If you tend to find structured exercise boring, this place may be the place for you! In addition, Sports Monster is a great place for people of all ages to have fun together away from the stifling heat.
If you have time to get some exercise in when you’re in Seoul, make sure to give these suggestions a try!
Written by Lynn Lee
