Exercise is an essential key in staying happy and healthy. While most people get their exercise from working out at the gym, others feel like going to the gym is torture. If you're one of those people who absolutely dread going to the gym, there are tons of different activities and classes you can take to exercise. Here is a list of five unique and fun ways to exercise without having to go to the gym or run on the treadmill:

1. Aerial Yoga

If you like yoga and want to step it up a level, aerial yoga may be the activity for you. Aerial yoga adapts the traditional yoga moves for a large silk hammock that is raised off the ground. The weightless poses can be used to strengthen your core as well as relieve aching joints and stretch tight muscles. Aerial yoga is a great way to relieve stress while having fun twisting and hanging in the silks.

2. Aerial Silks

If you enjoy aerial yoga, want to be able to hang from a piece of fabric, or want to recreate Pink's epic Grammy performance, take an aerial silks class. Aerial silks are a long piece of fabric attached to the ceiling to create two long tails or tied to make a hammock. The silks are used to perform aerial acrobatic flips, drops, and poses. Aerial silks is a great way to incorporate strength, flexibility, and balance into a workout.

3. Lyra

If you want to try an aerial class that is more unique and challenging, lyra (or aerial hoop) is a great way to go. A lyra is pretty much a steel hula hoop that hangs from the ceiling that is used to perform aerial acrobatics. For most, lyra is more difficult than aerial silks, but it is an amazing way to work your core, upper body, and legs.

4. Pole Dancing

Okay, hear me out. When most people think of pole dancing, the first thing that comes to mind is not exercise. But pole dancing is one of the most intense workouts you can find! Seriously, pole dancers are insanely strong. Pole dancing is an incredible way to strengthen your core and upper body, as well as increase your balance and flexibility. Many people also find pole dancing as a great way to build confidence and have fun!

5. Trampoline Fitness

There is no better way to let your inner child out than to go bounce around on trampolines! Across the country, trampoline parks are popping up that offer fitness classes that incorporate aerial aerobics and advanced calisthenics. Working out on a trampoline is a total body workout, and can improve your coordination and agility and burn major calories. It is also a low-impact workout since the trampoline absorbs most of the shock, so it is a lot easier on your joints and can be a good workout for somebody recovering from an injury.

The most important thing is that you find a workout that works for you and that you enjoy!