Get Outdoors and Get Active!

Issue Description

It’s summertime and the sun is out. It’s the perfect time of year to go out and get some outdoor exercising. But these activities don’t have to be intense or strenuous. They can be at your pace and relaxing. We’ve compiled a list of a few great outdoor activities to get you active and burn calories, but are also low-intensity and self-paced. A few things to remember when enjoying these fun summer activities:

  • Stay hydrated.
  • Stay cool.
  • Wear sunscreen.
  • Wear proper shoes.

Go for a Walk on a Nature Trail

Walking on a nature trail offers you a chance to be outdoors and burn calories. It also gives you a chance to unplug from devices and calm your mind, which helps to lower stress. Unlike running, walking can be done at a slower pace, and still burn a substantial amount of calories.

An added of walking outside, as opposed to being on a treadmill, is improved mental well-being. Evidence shows that time spent in the sun can reduce feelings of depression.

Go for a Bike Ride

Bike riding is a low-impact activity that allows you to train your muscles and build your endurance. It’s a versatile workout that can be done indoors on a stationary bike, or outdoors on a traditional bike. It’s a fun way to be able to get active and workout, without having to worry about added stress to your joints.

Go Kayaking

Kayaking is an amazing water activity that combines cardio and resistance training. Like the other activities on this list, it can be done at your own pace, is relaxing, and has the added benefit of being outdoors. For many who enjoy this sport, the appeal of being on the water is the calming effect on the mind.

With kayaking, you also have the added bonus of exercising not just your lower body, but your core, arms, and back as well. It is also a low-impact activity. If you don’t own a kayak, there are many places near the water that rent them out.

Outdoor Yoga

The benefits of yoga are numerous, and doing it outside just adds to that. Yoga is a great way to increase your flexibility, your strength and reduce stress. It also doesn’t require equipment or a special facility to do it.