Jumpstart Your Fitness: Use sports to get in shape and have fun!

Nothing makes time fly like having fun, and what better 'time' to have time flying by than during your workout? Finding something you genuinely think is fun that also burns loads of calories will not only help you get fitter faster, but it will make it easier to motivate yourself to get started every day and stick with your exercise routine. Spring isn't officially over yet, so take advantage of the season of new beginnings and good weather and join a league or start playing a sport to burn some extra calories and rekindle your fitness regimen and motivation. Here are just a few sports that will do wonders for your physique, (among other things!):

• Soccer is obviously great for leg and glute muscles, plus all the running around is great cardio for your heart. But what you may not realize is that soccer also gives your core and arms a workout as they keep you balanced, and your hips, knees, and ankles get stronger as they work to keep you stabilized.

• Water Polo is apparently one of the toughest sports you can play (I didn't know that) although injuries are rare because the water cushions blows and joints. Legs, shoulders, back, and chest all get a thorough workout, as well as your heart -- it'll really get your blood pumping.
• Basketball is great for lower body and building bone mass, plus your arms will get some exercise from shooting for baskets. Plus everybody knows what a great cardio workout players get while running up and down the court!
• Football isn't so strong in the cardio department due to the generally slower nature of the game, but what it can do for you is awesome muscle conditioning due to the sprints, cutting, and direction changes. The strategy and focus required can also make for a great mental workout.
• Tennis will burn lots of calories and build strength in your legs and upper body. It will also give you an intense cardio workout that I imagine is something like interval training because of all the stop and go.
• Karate is great in all kinds of ways. The hitting and kicking builds strength, while also building balance and coordination. And most people feel more relaxed and less stressed after kicking and hitting objects throughout class.
• Golf can, if you don't use a cart, be equivalent to spending 30-40 minutes on a treadmill. Can't beat that! And the swinging motion can improve flexibility, while the serenity and beauty of most courses relieves stress.
• Ice hockey provides aerobic and anaerobic workouts at the same time. Hockey players are known for having strong core muscles and lean body mass, plus using the stick to manage the puck while balancing on skates is great for your neuromuscular system.
• Ultimate frisbee will give you a great cardio workout as you sprint up and down the football-sized field, and catching the discs will improve your hand-eye coordination and agility.

Obviously all these sports have at least one thing in common: they get you moving. So pick something you love -- or haven't tried yet -- and get out there!