July 28, 2021
Summer Outdoor Workouts You'll Actually Want To Do
Summer is the perfect time of year to kick start (or ramp up) your exercise routine. There are plenty of options for getting outside and getting fit at no cost, making it an easy way to improve your health while sticking to a budget.
Trying to figure out how to start working out again after some time off? Follow these steps to create a solid exercise routine that will not only get you motivated, but help you stick to a workout routine well into the future.
If you’re motivated to start healthy exercise habits again, begin your new routine outdoors. What is the best workout routine for celebrating the summer, and getting outside? We have some great workout options for you to choose from.
The Best Outdoor Workout Ideas (You’ll Actually Want to Do)
Explore with a Hike
A great outdoor workout for beginners, hiking is really just walking - but on a trail! Hiking is not just a fantastic cardiovascular workout, but it will also help tone up your legs and glutes. This exercise is wonderful as a group activity with friends, and for taking in beautiful views, getting fresh air, escaping the noise of the city, exploring new areas, and reinvigorating your senses.
Download the helpful app AllTrails to find trails round your area, conveniently categorized by location and difficulty level. Be sure to bring a few healthy snacks, and more water than you think you’ll need. As you climb in elevation the body loses water faster through respiration since the air is thinner. If you enjoy this type of outdoor activity, invest in a good hydration pack to reduce the risk of dehydration.
HIIT the Park
Many experts in the fitness world believe that the best way to build stamina and muscle, as well as greatly increase your cardiovascular capacity, is by adding at least three 20-minute HIIT workouts to your weekly workout routine.
HIIT (high-intensity interval training) is a strategy where you alternate short periods of intense exercises with low-intensity “rest” periods of time. HIIT is an easy outdoor exercise to perform without the need of any equipment, so grab a workout buddy and head out to your nearest park. This is a fantastic 12-minute outdoor HIIT routine from Self.com with images clearly showing how to perform each exercise. Remember to move at your own pace, and ramp it up as you get stronger.
Join a Team Recreational Sport League
Did you know that there are adult pay-to-play sports leagues for all ability levels in just about every city? You can find adult leagues for softball, soccer, kickball, volleyball (both sand and grass), tennis, flag football, ultimate frisbee, and more! Rec leagues are a wonderful way to make new friends and get in a fun outdoor workout once a week.
Again, you don’t have to be good at the sport to play. The point is to try something new and to get your body moving. You will be surprised at how quickly your endurance, speed, and skill level increases just after a few games.
Play in the Water
Summer is the perfect time to take up swimming. Swimming is an amazing full-body workout that is gentle on the joints and knees. Have easy access to a lake or reservoir? Take up kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding once a week (many parks and beaches have rentals available).
Change up your Transportation
Instead of driving to run all of your errands, take advantage of the warmer summer days to alternate your mode of transportation and get more exercise at the same time! Bring a backpack and ride your bike to get groceries, or take a long walk to meet a friend for coffee. Sometimes getting in summer exercise is just about adding more movement into your daily routine.
Find Outdoor Yoga Events
Many cities and towns host outdoor yoga sessions, whether at no cost or for a small donation. A quick online search will pull up events in your area, but you don’t need a special event to take your yoga practice outside. Grab a towel, blanket, or yoga mat, find a shady spot under a tree, and queue up a guided yoga routine on your phone. The movements are relaxing and strengthening, and will help connect your mind and your body to the great outdoors.
Getting outside to exercise is an amazing idea, but before you head out the door be sure to protect your skin with plenty of sunscreen, bring along a water bottle with hydrating and energizing True Lemon Energy, and wear clothing that is breathable and sweat-wicking.
However you get your body moving this summer, remember to increase your water intake and follow these tips for exercising outdoors to ensure you stay healthy and happy!
More Summer Tips
Credit: Occhipinti, M.S., Amy. “15 Outdoor Fitness Ideas You Can Enjoy This Weekend”. AFPA Health, Nutrition & Fitness