Fun Outdoor Activities That Are Great Exercise

Mix up your workout routine by trying some fun outdoor activities that are great exercise.

I don't hate the gym, but I feel like gyms are a place I go when I can't get outside for one reason or another. Often it's the weather because I am sensitive to extreme temperatures, hot or cold. Sometimes I just didn't have time to get out and enjoy the fresh air. When I do get a chance, I like to switch up my exercise routine and do different things so I don't get bored. I personally feel like the outdoors is the perfect place to get your exercise in because it is often so fun you forget you are actually exercising! Here are some fun outdoor activities that are great exercise.

Fun Outdoor Activities That Are Great Exercise

Go hiking– This is by far my favorite way to get some exercise. You don't even have to scale rocks or treacherous trails in order to get a good hike workout in. Many easy trails are even paved, so they are good for all skill levels. If you want to switch things up, why not go in early spring or mid-summer and do a wildflower hunt? The best wildflowers are often found at the top of the trails I explore so this is the perfect incentive to go.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding– For the truly adventurous, stand up paddle boarding might be right up your alley. It uses your abs and core to stay balanced on top of your paddle boat, so it is the perfect exercise if that is a trouble area for you. Plus, it's major fun! If you have a lake near you, you might even have some places where you can rent them or take a class on using them.

Swimming/wading– Swimming is an excellent low impact exercise. It is perfect for those with knee or back injuries and those wanting to lose weight. Even if all you do is wade in the water, you are doing your legs good and improving your balance.

Park bench workouts– I like to do these when I go to my local park and kick up a typical walk. They are great because you are using your own body weight to do them and the ‘equipment' is simply benches and stairs or even playground equipment. Just use benches to do push-ups and dips, and monkey bars for pull-ups. What else can you think of to use as exercise equipment at your local park?

Riding a bike– Bike riding is a full cardio workout as well as a strength training one because of your need for balance. You don't have to ride a bike just for the workout either. You could use it as a form of transportation to places like the farmer's market.