Need a break from working out at the gym? Take your next workout outside! Check out these tips for getting the most out of outdoor exercise.
How to Exercise Outdoors: 4 Tips to Success
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There are many benefits to opting for exercise outdoors. Not the least of which is the natural Vitamin D you’ll be getting from the sun when it’s out. Even if your day is a little cloudy, stepping outside of your home or your gym and into the real world can have positive effects on your mind as well as your body. The next time you’re ready to break a sweat, consider going outside. There are many benefits, including emotional and mental, to be gained from outdoor exercise.
Locations
If you’re fortunate enough to have a neighborhood where you can go for a nice walk or run, take full advantage. This is a great way to unwind, save on commuting, gas, and crowds at the gym. It can also be very quiet and relaxing depending on the time of day you choose to do outdoor exercise. Look up nearby parks. See what is in your area and opt to try one out. Whether it’s utilizing sports courts, going for a walk, run, or doing a basic bootcamp outdoors it’s nice to be able to change up your routine. Having a day or two a week where you get outdoors instead of being in the gym can keep you on your toes and give you something to look forward to. It’s a nice way to break up your fitness regime.
Hiking
If you’re an avid gym-goer, things can start to feel too routine and mundane after a while. Consider adding a hike into your weekly workouts. Hiking can be anything from a long, flat walk to an intense uphill climb. It’s also a great way to see more of your surrounding areas. Use an app such as AllTrails to filter through hikes near you by duration, difficulty, and type. Whether you’re looking for a shady, forest vibe or a sunny, desert vibe, it has everything you need.
Free
Exercising outdoors can lower stress, and it’s free. Whether you’re doing it alone or meeting up with friends, the outdoors is a fun way to turn exercise into a social event at no cost. Studies have proven that working out “outdoors lowers a person’s blood pressure and heart rate” [1]. This is because being in nature is therapeutic and calming. It can also lower a person’s anxiety, depression and stress levels. A quick jog outdoors can boost mood far more than one indoors on a treadmill. This is also because when you’re outside, there’s more to look at and interact with.
Classes
Many parks offer free fitness classes. Look up parks near you to see what is offered. Oftentimes parks host yoga, boot camp, run clubs, sports, and other sessions free to locals. This can be a great way to get in your exercise and meet others, too! Overall, when it comes to working out, the outdoors will remain a (most likely) free and fun option to switch things up while burning your calories.
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