Want to work out more, but hate being stuck inside a stuffy, crowded gym? Why not head outdoors for your daily dose of fitness? There are plenty of invigorating, muscle-building, and heart-pumping activities you can do while out in Mother Nature. Let’s look at four popular outdoor exercises that can give you a real workout and how to start with them.
Hiking
Hiking gives you a chance to see beautiful scenery while you get a full-body workout. You can choose a flat, paved trail for an easy walk or tackle a steep, rocky path for a bigger challenge. This is one thing that’s great about hiking—it’s beginner-friendly and easy to ramp up the intensity once you feel more confident in your abilities.
To start hiking, you’ll need a sturdy pair of boots that support your ankles, comfortable clothing, and a backpack for water and snacks. You might also want to bring a map of the area, especially if you’re new to the trail. Start with shorter, well-marked paths and gradually increase your distance and difficulty as you build stamina.
Kayaking
If you live near water, kayaking is an amazing upper-body and core workout. Paddling strengthens your arms, shoulders, and back, and maintaining your balance works your abdominal muscles.
Local rental shops usually have everything you need to start, including a kayak, paddle, and life jacket. They can also offer tips on where to go. Beginners should start kayaking on calm lakes or slow-moving rivers so they can get the hang of paddling and not have to contend with roaring currents or choppy waters. As you get better at kayaking, you can move onto more challenging waterways.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a unique activity that works muscles you might not use every day. Staying balanced on a moving horse engages your core, inner thighs, and glutes. It’s an exciting way to connect with an animal and explore the outdoors.
For horseback riding, you’ll want to wear comfortable jeans, a fitted long-sleeved shirt, and a helmet. You’ll also need a solid pair of shoes with a slight heel; most recommend cowboy boots by brands real cowboys swear by, like Ariat.
You’ll also need a horse that’s well-trained and has a gentle temperament. Your local equestrian center can help you find a horse based on factors like your skill level, height, and proportions. From there, it’s all about getting to know your horse and their personality, and practicing until you feel comfortable and confident in the saddle.
Running
Running is a joy, but if you’re new to it and not sure how to get started and stay consistent, these tips can help you build a sustainable routine and fall in love with the sport.
For running, wear a good pair of supportive shoes, and comfortable, breathable athleisure. Like with hiking, you’ll want to bring a water bottle and snacks along to stay hydrated and energized. Beginning with a mix of walking and running can help you build up your endurance if you weren’t very active before. From there, you can start running longer distances.
You Can Have Fun and Get Fit Outdoors
You don’t have to spend all day inside if you want to build muscle and strengthen your cardiovascular system. Head out into nature and try some of these outdoor exercises that challenge your body.
