Many of us are guilty of spending too much time indoors, and too little time outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine enjoying the environment we inhabit. It’s time to bring fitness and nature together in beautiful harmony by embracing outdoor fitness fun! Read on to discover some of the many ways you can embrace the great outdoors with outdoor workout routines.
1. Nature’s Outdoor Gym: Exploring Fun Outdoor Exercise Routines
Gone are the days of looking for a mirror to perfect those lunges or a treadmill to track those jogs. Embrace nature’s outdoor gym and all the activities it has to offer. Take up a fun outdoor exercise routine with activities that are both accessible and flexible. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced-level exerciser, these activities guarantee the perfect balance between fitness and fun.
Start your outdoor workout with an easy walk. Take in the beautiful sights nature has to offer. You can either keep it short and brisk, or make it longer and take sightseeing opportunities to engage more muscles. Either way, the fresh air will benefit you from head to toe.
Next, discover these testing and thrilling outdoor workouts:
- Yoga and Pilates: get your inner zen mode on in the great outdoors
- Jogging: kick your fitness levels up a notch with a run in the park
- Interval Training: combine sprints and hills to push your limits
Lastly, add an element of adventure to your routine by picking up a sport. Join a local badminton group, go biking with a group of friends, and try hitchhiking if you’re feeling more daring. They’re excellent ways to stay in shape and finally conquer the criss-crossing trails.
2. Turn the Great Outdoors into Your Own Private Playground
If you’re the type of person who loves to get out and explore, why not bring the fun right into your own backyard? The great outdoors can be your own personal playground if you know how to make use of its diverse landscape. Here’s how:
- Skiing/Snowboarding – Take advantage of the icy terrain in the winter months. Skiing and snowboarding can provide hours of entertainment, and offer new experiences for family and friends to bond over.
- Hiking – Enjoy nature’s terrain by taking long and leisurely walks through nearby hills or wooded trails. You could even bring a picnic lunch for a unique and serene dining experience.
- Camping – There’s nothing quite like sleeping under the stars. Go camping and explore the night with friends and family. If you’re lucky you might even get to build a campfire for peace-of-mind and marshmallow roasting.
Open your eyes to the beauty that surrounds you, and embrace the unique opportunity to turn your backyard into a fun and exciting playground. Go for a joyride on your bike, have a friendly snowball fight, or climb a few trees – the possibilities are endless!
In addition to exploring your backyard for fun and adventure, it’s also a great way to stay in shape and get outdoors. Make sure to pack the right equipment and don’t forget the sunscreen to maximize your outdoor experience.
3. Let Nature Be Your Exercise Instructor
Let nature take on the role of your exercise instructor with these simple activities. Don’t let the thought of becoming a gym rat stop you if you’ve always aspired to get fit. You can follow nature’s path while exploring your surroundings and even learn the benefits of natural habitats.
Take a Hike
Explore landscapes and sights while trekking. Whether you tackle a hilly trail or opt for a leisurely walking path, enjoy the different botany you’ll spot along the way. This does not only give a great workout, but also an opportunity to take in some fresh air and get away from the hustle and bustle of the regular exercise routines.
Go for a Swim
- If you’re near a sea, river or lake, why not take a dip? It’s an activity that’s full of cardiovascular benefit, while also providing a relaxing respite from everyday stress.
- The movement of the waves provides a great lower-body workout, and the buoyancy of the water takes much of the strain off of your joints that is associated with more traditional exercises.
Climb a Hill
Climbing hills is a great way to tone muscles and improve endurance. Looking out from up high can provide a much needed break from a stressful environment, as you watch the world and your worries go by. The higher the hill, the more intensive the workout, so take your pick according to the time limit you have.
4. Befriend Mother Nature with These Outdoor Fitness Ideas
Exercising outdoors doesn’t just improve your physical health, it can also help heal the soul. Here are some fitness ideas and activities to help you get your body moving and your spirits soaring.
- Go for a swim! If you have a local pool or lake, take a dip to cool down under the sun. Swimming is a great way to get the heart pumping and great for strength building and endurance.
- Go for a run or brisk walk along the beach. Enjoy the serene atmosphere while practicing mindfulness.
- Explore the great outdoors. From mountain biking to kayaking, there are endless possibilities when it comes to exploring nature. Find a trail nearby and see what kind of surprises await you.
Yoga is a great way to relax while getting fit. You can easily find local classes near you or even practice yoga in the comfort of your own backyard. Take a mindful approach and connect with your breath as you explore each pose.
For those looking for a more intense workout, find a nearby park and take a HIIT class. High intensity interval training is an effective way to get your heart rate up while also creating a calorie deficit.
5. Make Your Exercise Sessions a Natural Adventure
Exercising doesn’t have to be a chore. Spice up your sessions with a natural adventure! Here are some ways to escape the monotony of standard exercises.
- Beautify the neighbourhood: Go with your family or friends and pick up fallen branches, leaves, or litter in the neighbourhood or a nearby park. It’s a great way to get a workout in while also doing something good for the environment.
- Backyard yoga: Find an area in your backyard or on your balcony where you can roll out a mat. Stretch and pose to the sounds of nature – you’ll soon forget that you are even exercising!
Exploring an outdoor space can be incredibly rewarding. Put together an obstacle course with items you find in the great outdoors. Climb, crawl, jump, and balance your way through your homemade course. Take joy in seeing nature in all its glory – you’ll feel energized for days afterwards.
Or, why not go for a hike? Or a bike ride? Even if you are short on time, it is still possible to sneak in a brisk walk or a jog in a nearby park. Feel free to map out your route in advance, or simply follow the paths that unfold before you. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for wild animals or flowers blooming in unexpected places.
6. Unlock the Fun of Nature with Outdoor Workout Routines
Exercising outdoors is a great way to shake up your normal workout routine. Celebrate nature and get your body moving as it soaks up the sun!
Here are some tips to make outdoor workouts more fun:
- Set a goal – aim to work out for 2-3 times a week and be consistent with it.
- Vary your exercises so you are less likely to get bored.
- Try a new activity – you can explore biking, boating, or long hikes to get your heart rate up.
- Bring a buddy – having a friend by your side will help motivate you.
When it comes to clothing, you don’t need to invest in expensive workout gear. Aim for breathable materials like cotton, linen, or jersey. Choose blocks of bright colors or bold patterned fabrics to reflect the vibrancy of the outdoors. Lastly, don’t forget your sunscreen and shades!
Enjoying the greenery and fresh air while exercising is therapeutic and can give you that extra boost in energy that we all need. So go outside and soak up the warmth of the sun while getting your body moving!
The great outdoors is a perfect venue to jumpstart your fitness journey. With so many workout options, there’s something for everyone. So head outside and find the routine that works best for you — your body and your surroundings will thank you. Get moving and have a blast with outdoor fitness activities!