When people think about exercising or keeping fit, the first thing that comes to mind is usually a packed gym and a weight rack. However, there are many outdoor activities to stay in shape that you can do that are equally beneficial to your health.
Here in this article, you’ll get to learn some every day and overlooked but fun outdoor activities to stay in shape that will keep you in great shape without the need to hit the gym. One of these activities includes running, which you can learn more about here.
If you want to know about other outdoor activities to stay in shape you can indulge in, continue reading:
1. Hiking
For those of you who are in love with the great outdoors, hiking is a natural choice. It’s a great aerobic workout that promotes strength and balance because of the uneven terrain you’ll be traveling on.
Studies have also suggested that hiking positively affects your mental health, as being in nature reduces stress levels and negates negative thinking. Studies have also shown that taking a long hike or two over the weekend has almost the exact effects of doing regular workouts two to three times a week.
2. Cycling
We know cycling as a low-affected activity outdoor activity to stay in shape. The occasional bike ride boosts your cardiovascular health, and it’s a popular choice for those interested in losing weight. Unlike running, it’s much gentle on your joints.
However, some men are concerned that cycling harms their fertility and sexual functionality. But there’s nothing to worry about—recent studies have shown no link between infertility and cycling.
3. Gardening
An outdoor activity to stay in shape that is often overlooked, gardening can be a considerable workout. As an activity that is not usually viewed as work or exercise, it has a soothing effect on the mind. However, it’s a great way to stay fit since it helps burn some calories. While gardening, you plant, mow the lawn, or do some digging, which can be as physically demanding as running. Removing weeds for about 30 minutes can help you burn more than a hundred calories.
Gardening is also perfect for you if you don’t feel like going for a jog or biking around. You can do a bit of it every day. All you have to do is put on some comfortable clothes, roll up your sleeves, and get busy with the dirt. You’ll leave your garden with powerful muscles and peace of mind.
4. Swimming
Another fun outdoor activity to stay in shape that isn’t usually viewed as exercise is swimming. But in summer, when it’s nice and hot outside, swimming is a great way to cool off and burn some calories.
Studies have shown that swimming and other water-based activities are beneficial to those with arthritis and other joint conditions since they reduce the pain.
5. Ball Sports
Ball sports have a good intensity for them. From the overall spectrum, you can choose which one matches your goals. Sports, such as tennis, involve less running but incorporate movements that tone your legs and arms.
Sports like soccer possess a higher level of intense movement and help promote your aerobic and cardiovascular health. In addition, team sports benefit from improving your mental health because of the group dynamics involved.
6. Outdoor Yoga
One of the biggest mistakes is thinking that yoga doesn’t qualify as exercise. They quickly made most naysayers into believers after spending a couple of minutes on the mat.
Yoga incorporates different stretches in a limited range of movement to strengthen your joints, ligaments, and tendons. Used by most to deal with anxiety, it’s as much a great workout as other outdoor activities. So, it’s worth adding to your routine.
7. Kayaking
Kayaking is a water-based activity that offers a scenic element to your experience. It’s a lovely way of exploring nature, and it’s suitable for those who want to do some exercise in a solitary manner.
For those who have health problems in their legs or feet, kayaking is an enjoyable activity that works on your upper body strength and keeps your legs and feet relaxed, as you’ll be sitting the whole time.
8. Running
The list would not be complete without mentioning running. One of the most popular cardiovascular exercises, running is a great way to stay in shape while taking in beautiful views. So if you’re used to getting onto a treadmill at the gym, take some time off from the machinery and head out into the great outdoors.
Conclusion
It is no surprise that we live in a world where people are constantly looking for ways to stay fit and healthy. Luckily, there are many activities you can do outdoors to get your heart rate up and make sure your body stays strong. But, of course, you have to be creative with your workout routine and find what’s suitable for your lifestyle, as well as your location. Always choose the activities that work best for you.
We’ve compiled 8 of our favorites! What has been your experience with this? Let us know in the comments if any of these sound like something you would be interested in trying out (or have already tried)!
