We know that including exercise into our weekly routine is going to have a positive impact on our quality of life and overall wellness.
Add in outdoor activity and the benefits are even more plentiful!
By moving your workouts outside, you stand to benefit from:
- The mood-boosting effects of sunlight
- Increased self-esteem
- Longer workouts
- More self-reflection
- Better people skills
- Increased memory retention
- Stress reduction by reducing cortisol
- Better sleep quality
- Boost in immunity
In terms of your physical fitness, most activities have similar benefits whether they’re performed inside or out… but when it comes down to it, would you rather sprint on an inclined treadmill or up a beautiful hill with a view at the top?
That view can add so much to your workout: a reward for your hard work, a moment of reflection, the added stimulation of real life obstacles like water or rocks and roots to navigate; all those little things can elevate your workouts to be more holistic and fulfilling.
The best thing outdoor workouts have to offer is variety!
There are a million things you can do outside and you can really tailor it to your energy level and workout goals. From easy/moderate activities to ones that require higher levels of skill and stamina, there is something for everyone.
Activities that require little or no equipment:
- Hiking/Walking
- Swimming
- Running
- Dancing
- Yoga
- Beach volleyball
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Netball
- Rugby
Activities with equipment:
- Cycling
- Surfing
- Outdoor weight lifting
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Rowing
- Rock Climbing
- Scuba Diving ** seek proper training **
- Snorkeling
- Water skiing
- Wakeboarding
- Golfing
Remember to think GREEN!
Perhaps most important of all, moving outside gives us quality time to appreciate our environment. Our lands nourish us and provide a natural playground for us to discover, explore and protect. Whatever activities you choose to take outside, please consider your impact on those natural spaces and best practices for leaving it the way you found it (if not better).
Some of those practices include:
- “Pack in, pack out” – don’t leave anything behind (no dog poop, no trash, nothing!)
- Being careful not to disturb or damage plant life – be mindful of things like hammock straps and slacklines – trees are our planet’s lungs!
- Be mindful of the products your wearing and what water sources you are swimming in, camping near, or drinking from – consider reef friendly sunscreen and other natural products free of harmful chemicals
- When in doubt, don’t feed the wildlife human food – unassuming products like bread and processed goods cann wreak havoc on animals’ tummies.
What will your next outdoor adventure include?