Working out at home can be a real timesaver, allowing you to quickly knock out your exercise then move on with the rest of your day. A home fitness routine may be able to save you some money, too, since you can pass on the gym membership or yoga studio. But even though it may be efficient, it can get super boring after a while. Plus, it can be pretty hard to muster up the motivation and will power required to break a sweat in the comfort of your home.
Why not switch things up and put a little fun into your fitness program by taking it outdoors? You’ll appreciate a change of scenery and everyone knows that spending time in nature is good for the soul. Before you start throwing out any excuse about the weather being too hot or cold, here us out first. Read through these five exercise ideas to get you outside so you can soak up some vitamin D, torch calories, and have a good time while you’re at it.
1. Take a Walk Around the Block
As they say, “You have to walk before you can run,” so let’s start with the very basics. It may sound les than tough compared to the elliptical machine you have in your garage, but walking actually has tremendous benefits for your health. Not only is it an easy way to stay active, but it can also help you lose weight! And, if you have children (including fur babies!) at home, it’s a great activity to get everyone outside for some fresh air.
Whether you go for a leisurely stroll or push yourself at a brisk pace, you’ll receive the benefits of this low-impact exercise that’s far friendlier on your joints and bones than running would be. We suggest taking a walk after eating a meal because it helps you metabolize your food better, with fewer calories retained.
Walking can quickly help you lose weight and stay active. You can walk in your near park; it could be a light walk just to move your muscles, or you can pace up a little with a brisk walk; the choice is yours. If you are up for a challenge, you can also add some ankle weights and do some arm exercises as you walk.
2. Turn up the Intensity on the Trail
Maybe a walk around the block doesn’t quite do it for you, or the residential traffic in your area is too congested to feel safe in low-light conditions. In that case, head to your closest trail system and feel your legs begin to burn as you take in all the sights! You’ll feel proud and accomplished with every peak you ascend, and the time you spend out there may benefit your mind just as much as your body.
3. Pound the Pavement
Some people hate cardio, others live for it. If you fall into the latter camp but are using to logging miles on the treadmill inside, it might be time to see what the streets have to offer. Anyone who has started feeling like their average mile has turned into a never-ending chore will certainly appreciate how fast time flies with so many things to watch and observe on your route throughout the city. You don’t need to splurge on the best marathon running shoes to transition into a road warrior; any sneaker with ample cushioning will keep your feet protected as you pound away on the pavement!
4. Swim Some Laps in the Pool
If the walking, running, hiking, and jogging aren’t your thing, there are other forms of outdoor cardio you should still explore. Swimming is fantastic because it’s also very low impact, so you won’t perceive as much pain or soreness after a session of work. It’s also very therapeutic and a great reason to head to the beach while the weather is still nice!
5. Go for a Bike Ride
There’s no denying that stationary electric bikes offer a convenient way to burn calories while watching TV, but it’s just not the same thing as going for a bike ride outside. There’s something special to be said about the pride you feel after reaching the top of a treacherous hill, followed by the wind in your face as you barrel down the other side.
Wrapping Up
Give these classic workouts a shot, then keep it going with sports like beach volleyball or standup paddle boarding to stay fit and have fun in the sun!