You need to stop living a sedentary life, and start being very active in order to lose weight. However, this does not mean you should bore yourself with repetitive exercises. Rather, try to make your activities as enjoyable as possible – exercise with friends, listen to upbeat music on a run, or watch your favourite TV show when you’re on the treadmill.

You can learn a lot about exercise and being active by watching children play – they run, jump and are overall very active, and very happy while being active. Exercise doesn’t mean getting bored – you can have a lot of fun working out. Here are some fun things you can do to lose weight:

1. Play tag
Run around and play tag. This is a very fun activity for losing weight, especially if you have children or grandchildren to chase! You could also play with your nieces and nephews, or your friends’ children – as an added bonus they will love you!

Running, climbing and squatting are great ways to burn calories while still enjoying yourself.

2. Go to the beach

Pack your favourite foods in a picnic basket and head to the beach. Go for a run along the shore, or go for a swim. You’ll be out in the fresh air and losing weight at the same time.

3. Play with your friends

Challenge your friends to a game – whether it’s basketball, football or tennis. You’ll have fun and enjoy a little friendly competition.

4. Join a walking group

You’ll make friends, see interesting sites in your city and you’ll walk a great deal. Preparing for your long walk will also help you get into shape and stay motivated during the week.

5. Play on a trampoline

Jumping up and down on a trampoline is fun and child-like, but at the same time you’ll be burning calories and building muscle through your rebounding motion.

6. Take a hiking trip
Arrange to visit a local attraction with a group of friends – maybe a nearby mountain or nature reserve. You’ll enjoy the local flora and fauna, hang out with friends, and lose weight.

7. Go dancing

Certain kinds of dancing, like hip-hop and belly-dancing are very intense activities that burn a lot of calories. Take a class – you’ll have fun, learn a new skill and burn a lot of fat.

Remember to reward yourself after you successfully reach a milestone. Buy yourself a CD of workout music, or new running clothes. Remember to stay motivated, and enjoy the journey.