This is a site about cycling, but that doesn’t mean we can’t take a look at other forms of recreation that require no exercise at all. Just because you have some free time, you don’t have to conquer a mountain, run a marathon, or see how many pushups you can do. We are going to talk about some hobbies and activities that require no physical effort.
Poker
Having a poker night with your friends or playing it online does several things for you. First of all, it’s fun. Secondly, it helps you learn how to formulate plans when you don’t know all the factors involved and how to adjust your strategy. Finally, mind games involved can help you practice to keep your emotions in check, or at least invisible on your face. The term poker face signifies a face that is very difficult, if not impossible, to read, so you can never tell what reaction someone has to new information. Playing poker is a hobby that has real-life benefits.
Card Games
Besides poker and other classics, there is a plethora of trading card games and collecting card games that even have official tournaments. For example, there is Magic, The Gathering, a game where you construct your own deck with monsters, mana, and spells in order to come up with an unbeatable strategy. Games like this are versatile and updated regularly, so they don’t get stale.
Chess
You could learn how to play in a few hours and you may still take years and years to master it. Chess is a game of strategy and requires you to use your brain to the max in order to anticipate your opponent’s moves and act accordingly. Strategies have been made over and over and there are famous opening sequences and endgames. It’s a great workout for your brain as well. Why do you think there are so many senior citizens playing it? They are exercising their brains.
Books
Relaxing with a good book is an amazing way to either escape reality or analyze it and understand it better. With so many book genres out there, you can get lost in fiction, study non-fiction, or explore the astounding world of poetry. Books have a way of transporting you to another realm with a different time flow. If you think that you don’t have enough time to dedicate to reading books, might we suggest audiobooks? They are a great way to get acquainted with classic works on your way to your job or while you’re walking the dog.
Video Games
Depending on the type, video games demand quick thinking, predicting what happens next, having fast reflexes, and developing patience. There are many games out there with amazing stories that are on par with books, with character development and the emotional investment. There are so many different types of games that you can play online for free that you really don’t need to worry about spending too much money on this hobby. Though, of course, some of the finer games do require payment or even a subscription.
Board Games
You would think these would go out of style by now, but people are coming up with more and more creative adventures and strategies. Challenge your friends and loved ones to Catan, Exploding Kittens, or Risk and see them sweat while trying to get the best of you. Board games are great for exercising your brain and spending quality time with family. However, they vary in length, so make sure you have enough time to tackle them before buying them.