There's no question that regular exercise is key to staying healthy. We can have the healthiest diet in town, but our bodies need physical activity to round things out. Not only is regular exercise great for your body, it contributes to happiness and good self esteem, too!

Sure, you could pony up for an expensive gym membership. There are even green gyms popping up in a lot of cities. Gyms are a great resource, but you can also get the exercise you need without setting foot into the gym. In fact, you can even get good exercise without scheduling a formal "workout" at all.

Here are some ways to work out without the gym and maybe lower your impact on the planet while you're at it!

Use Your Feet

Going for a walk or a run outside is pretty much a no-brainer when it comes to getting your daily workout, but you don't necessarily have to set this time aside just for working out. Instead, use your feet to run some errands instead of your car. If you're heading to the grocery store, a folding cart can help you tote things home.

For errands that are a bit further off, why not hop on your bike? With a back pack or some saddlebags, you'd be surprised at how much you can tote. Worried about being sweaty when you arrive at your destination? You might pack yourself a fresh top and some eco-friendly deodorant to help cool yourself down. Spritzing some water onto your face does wonders, too.

Heavy Lifting

Weight training is key for healthy bones, but you don't need dumbells or weight machines to fit this in. Working in the garden or mowing the lawn with a motorless push mower are great for working those muscles.

If you've chosen to ride a bike or walk to your destination, adding a full back pack helps build some muscle.

Helping someone move might seem like a drag, but it's also a great chance to work those muscles. So are other "chores" like scrubbing the bath tub with baking soda or washing the windows.

Play

Playing outdoors with your kids is an excellent way to get your exercise without hitting the gym. Maybe you can ride bikes together to the park to spot some critters or fly a kite. Try playing tag or climbing a tree! Not only does play help keep you in shape, you get some quality time with the kiddos and help them stay active, too.

Don't have kids? No problem! Who says you need a kid as an excuse to play? It might be fun to ride bikes somewhere for a pic nic or down to the beach.

How do you guys sneak in some exercise during your day to day routine?

Image Credit: Creative Commons photo by billselak