As the weather warms up, exercising outdoors becomes a great free option. Say goodbye to the indoor gyms and hello to the great outdoors as your workout playground. Don’t be daunted, there are beginner options like gentle walking and yoga and some more energetic and advanced exercises like uphill hiking.
Mental health charity Mind states that spending time in nature has been found to help with mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.
Being outside in the sunlight can also help sufferers of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) a type of depression that affects people during winter when there is a lack of sunlight. With that said, we’re exploring exciting options to rejuvenate your fitness routine with these 7 outdoor workouts for Spring.
Running
Lace up your trainers and hit parks or woodland routes for an exhilarating run in nature. Springtime trails offer a scenic backdrop of blooming flowers, budding trees, and chirping birds, making your workout feel more like a rejuvenating adventure. Not only does running in the wilderness provide a refreshing change of scenery, but the uneven terrain also challenges your balance and engages different muscle groups, giving you a full-body workout.
Why not try a running app such as Strava or Map My Run, which can help track your performance and improve your technique.
Outdoor Yoga
Take your yoga practice outside and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature. Find a calming spot in the park or by a serene lake, roll out your yoga mat on a smooth surface like even grass, and let the fresh air invigorate your practice. Practicing yoga outdoors lets you connect with nature and find a deeper sense of presence and mindfulness. Not tried yoga yet? Check out our blog on the benefits of yoga.
Park Workouts
Parks offer a versatile setting for a variety of outdoor exercises. Join your local Park Run, or utilise benches for step-ups, tricep dips, and incline push-ups. Find a sturdy tree branch for pull-ups or resistance band exercises. Use the open space for bodyweight exercises like lunges, squats, and burpees. Incorporate equipment such as jump ropes or agility cones for added intensity. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll enjoy the added vitamin D boost from exercising under the sun.
Cycling Adventures
Dust off your bike and explore the scenic cycling routes in your area. Whether you prefer leisurely rides through the countryside or challenging hill climbs, cycling allows you to cover more ground while enjoying the beauty of spring. Cycling is not only a fantastic cardiovascular workout but also a low-impact exercise that’s gentle on the joints. According to Cycling UK, regular cycling can lower your chances of cardiovascular disease and cancer.[1]
[1] The case for cycling: health | Cycling UK
Boot Camps
Join a local outdoor boot camp or gather a group of friends for a DIY session in the park. Boot camp-style workouts combine strength training, cardio, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for a calorie-torching, muscle-building session. With the vast open space of the outdoors as your gym, you can perform a variety of exercises such as sprints, kettlebell swings, battle rope drills, and more. The camaraderie and motivational atmosphere of a group workout will also keep you inspired and accountable.
Hiking Escapades
Try a hiking adventure to explore new areas and immerse yourself in nature. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls or challenging summit hikes, there’s a hike out there for every fitness level. Take a trundle around a lake or head up a hillfort. Hiking not only provides a great cardiovascular workout but also offers mental health benefits as you disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily. National Trails is a great website for finding the perfect route for you.
Garden Circuit Training
Set up a circuit training routine in your back garden (or a nearby park if you don’t have one) using portable fitness equipment like resistance bands, skipping ropes, and medicine balls. Design a circuit that includes a mix of strength exercises, stretching, and cardio bursts. Alternate between stations with minimal rest to keep your heart rate elevated and maximise calorie burn. Circuit training is a time-efficient way to target multiple muscle groups while improving overall fitness and endurance.
Safety First
As you venture outdoors for your workouts, remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and listen to your body’s cues. It’s all about exercising at your own pace. Please note: do not undertake strenuous exercise without checking with your doctor that you are fit and healthy to do so.
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