Some of the main benefits of living a physically active life include stronger bones and muscles, a reduced risk of chronic diseases, better brain health, higher-quality sleep, and fewer feelings of anxiety. Overall, if you’re exercising regularly, you’re leading a higher-quality life, and you’re able to do more everyday activities more easily.

To be clear, it isn’t mandatory that you get a gym membership. It’s important that you do the physical activities that you enjoy doing because that will make it easier to develop healthy habits and stay motivated.

If you prefer hiking, swimming, or even weight-lifting in your garage instead of jogging, biking, and using fitness machines, do that. Try out a few things and do what works for you. Just remember that adding a social element to your workouts can help you stay accountable, even if you prefer working out alone.