Fit Factor: Teaming up

Many people who establish fitness routines do it alone, and that's very commendable. But let's face it -- sometimes exercising alone can be a drag. Not only do you not have anyone to commiserate with and share your triumphs with, but when you're going at it alone, you have no one to be accountable too and unless your ultra-motivated, that can lead to laziness sometimes. Team sports are a great way to get active and not only that, but you'll meet new friends and have lots of fun in the meantime. Here's a list of some fun team sports. Ask around and you'll probably find a league you can join in you're area.

• Dragon boating: Dragon boating has become increasingly popular over the last few years, and most cities have an annual dragon boat festival in the summer. Dragon boating teams consist of 22 people, 20 of whom are responsible for rowing the team to victory, and while you might think you can slack off because there are so many people, think again. Dragon boating is hard work, and can burn up to 800 calories an hour. I first heard about it from a family friend who participates in races regularly. She is in her 70s and a cancer survivor, so I think that if she can do it, you can too.

• Volleyball: Volleyball is one of my favourite sports, particularly beach volleyball. Granted, I'm notoriously klutzy and known for missing the ball, so I stick to rec leagues where the top priority is fun.
• Soccer: Soccer is an awesome workout and it's a great sport to play because it combines skill with endurance. Soccer is probably the most popular sport in the world, and chances are your city has recreational teams that vary in age and ability.
• Roller derby: Roller derby is experiencing a huge surge in popularity (perhaps because of the short-lived series Rollergirls?), and in particular, there are a number of all-girl leagues that are popping up across the country. Roller derby is a great way to keep in shape, but be forewarned, it is grueling and good roller skating skills are a must-have. But it's also a lot of fun if you can get into it (so I've heard, anyway. I've never done roller derby myself but I did spend a good percentage of my youth on roller skates)
• Dodgeball: Dodgeball is a game that you can play even if you have absolutely no skills or hand-eye coordination (like me.) And while it's probably not the most physically challenging sport there ever was, it's at least an excuse to get out and do something other than make a dent in the couch.

These might not be your cup of tea, but regardless, there's sure to be a team sport you can get involved in, like softball, hockey, basketball ... the list goes on. Joining a team is just the start to establishing healthy habits that hopefully will last your entire life.