The gym may have flat screen TVs for you to watch while you burn some calories on the rowing machine, but how cool would it be to actually get out in the water and start paddling?

Kayaking is a fun and exciting way to put in a solid workout. Even as a beginner, it's not terribly uncommon to burn upwards of 400 calories an hour. And, as you become more and more aggressive in your stroke and are able to take on more challenging waterways, the workout -- as well as the whole experience -- only gets better from there.

Think there can't possibly be a place to kayak near where you live? Think again. There's kayaking to be done just about anywhere. Heck, even if you live in New York City, you can still get some paddling in. Group trips down the Hudson River are available, as are half-day paddles that can take you right past the Statue of Liberty!! Visit Manhattan Kayak Company for more information.