7 Fun Ways To Exercise Outdoors & Reap The Benefits

Do you fancy getting outside for your exercise when the weather improves but want to find fun ways to exercise outdoors? It’s a great way to combine your workout, with some much needed time outside of your home or office.

With long working days spent inside, it’s easy to lose a sense of time and realise you’ve not headed out all day. Exercising outdoors is much better for your mood and health in general. If you can exercise in nature, you will reap the benefits of fresh air and a boost of vitamin D, as well as getting in shape.

Even if it’s not spring or summer, as long as it’s not constantly raining or freezing, there’s no reason to wait for perfect weather to get outside and work out.

If you live in a city, aim for a morning workout outside and stay away from main roads to minimise exposure to pollution. Head straight for your nearest park or open space and exercise in a green, calming environment.

If you need another good reason to try new, fun ways to exercise outdoors, many of the below suggestions are free or cheaper than a gym membership…

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1. Join an outdoor exercise class

If you prefer to exercise with others and be part of a group, look at outdoor exercise classes in your local area. There are so many options such as Bootcamp classes, military fitness, HIIT, buggy/pram classes for new mums and more.

Many are held in the park or even on rooftops. If you’re not sure you’ll like it, ask for a trial class or pay as you go options.

If you’re reading this from a warmer country, you probably have the option of yoga and all sorts of exercise outdoors. Make the most of it and think of those that only have the option of a stuffy gym with artificial lighting!

2. Create your own circuit programme outdoors

If group exercise isn’t for you but you’re good at self-motivating yourself to exercise, design your own workout. Or memorise a favourite sequence to follow outdoors.

Do you ever see people doing their own HIIT or similar workout in the park? Why not try yourself. Track your exercise and weight loss with printable trackers to keep your motivation up!

It’s inspiring to see others going for it without feeling self-conscious. You could take the core exercises you already remember from the gym or home workouts and try them outside. Or have a workout or circuit ready on your phone to follow.

3. Start walking regularly and with purpose

This is the easiest option for incorporating outdoor exercise into your day. If you’re new in a city or town then use your walks to get to know your local neighbourhood.

Head in different directions each time and try new routes. Just make sure you’ve got mobile data and a good map app so you don’t get lost!

If you live outside of a city, you’ll no doubt have access to some beautiful nature walks. Check out local suggested trails or walking groups you could join. It’s a good opportunity to learn about local history too.

Grab a friend or colleague so you can use the time to catch up too. Just make sure you remember it’s a workout, so put the effort in and keep up a good pace.

4. Head out for a run

Mix up your running routes to keep things interesting. And if you need to get started, read how to start or restart running. Get some brilliant wireless headphones to listen to some motivational music or even a podcast.

You could join a running or jogging club if you’d like more support and the social factor. There are levels for beginners too, so you don’t need to worry about keeping up with the pros.

Make sure you’ve got the right gear such as breathable clothes and supportive running shoes like ASICS or another good brand. It’s important to prevent injuries and support your feet and ankles.

Consult your GP or healthcare provider for advice on any new workout regime, if it’s been a while or you have any health conditions.

5. Go out for a bike ride

If you are lucky enough to be able to access a cycle path in nature then make the most of it. If you live in the city, consider taking the bikes further out to a quiet and safe place you can enjoy.

Bike riding for exercise among traffic and dangerous roads is not recommended, this is about fun ways to exercise outdoors!

This is another lovely activity to do with a friend or group, if you do have access to safe routes. Again, make sure you have (or borrow) the right gear to prevent injury. Cycling is such a fun form of exercise but don’t over exert yourself, if it’s been a while!

6. Go swimming or try water sports

Swimming outdoors can be refreshing, invigorating and give you summer holiday vibes, even at home. If you can handle colder water, brave it! Check out safe outdoor swimming options such as an outdoor pool/lido or pond!

If you prefer to be close to, but preferably out of the water, try stand-up paddle boarding. Or canoeing, for a brilliant upper body workout and social activity, if through a group.

7. Get dancing

Check out whether you have outdoor dance classes near you. When the weather warms up, classes often take themselves outdoors and it’s a lovely way to learn to dance. This is one of the most fun ways to exercise outdoors!

Whether it be Zumba, Jive, Street Dance or a dozen other option, you may find them in your local park. It can be much nicer to learn dance in the open air and not get overheated!

Wrapping up: Fun ways to exercise outdoors

There are plenty of fun ways to exercise outdoors, so do explore some of the above. The benefits for your mind and body such as stress reduction, mood boost, sleeping better, and general improved mental and physical health, can’t be underestimated.

Read more in the Environmental Health Perspectives study which gives further insight into the advantages of exercising outdoors.

You may find that exercising outdoors really motivates you to work out longer. Being around nature and in the fresh air, can’t be beaten. You’ll be full of energy and ready for anything after a good outdoor workout!

If you struggle to find time to exercise as a remote worker, read this for ways to sneak in exercise if you work from home. There are plenty of fun ways to exercise outdoors, if you want to get moving!

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The information provided is for educational purposes only, and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. This site is not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information.