With the weather getting nicer and the temperatures rising, it’s nice to get out in the great outdoors to workout. Working out inside, in a gym, can be stuffy and boring. While gyms are great for those that need a dedicated and planned workout routine, the great out doors can be… even greater! Most of you probably don’t see the great outdoors as a huge playground, so to speak. You may just see it for nothing more than running or walking. But what are some workouts that can be achieved outside without having to go to the gym?
The Beach
Running in the sand is killer to your calves. This is the ultimate cardio workout out there, after a few steps on the beach you won’t be able to stop. But when you do you’ll have burning calves, lungs, and a strong beating heart. More than likely, you won’t have to do any other workout to achieve your daily goal. Don’t be mistaken, this is a fully body workout.
Some things to consider: If you’re running on the beach, you may want to consider your outfit choice. And by outfit choice, I mean shoes. Shoes or no shoes? Running with shoes doesn’t allow for a full range of motion which can lead to injury. But running without shoes can lead to lengthening of muscles and abrasion injury from natural affects from the beach, i.e. seashells. Since this is a low-impact run, you may not think the use of full range of motion will affect your the way that it does. Be sure to work yourself up to your usual level of cardio workout.
Stretches to do before:
Walking Lunges
Side Stretch
Hip Flex
Calf Stretches
Stork Stretches
The Trail
Experience Life has a great trail workout for those of you that like the good ol’ outdoors. There is something about running on a trail, in the woods that makes your soul happy. Check out what what Experience Life has for outdoor workouts on the trail!
Some things to consider: Running on a trail can be tedious. Think about how nature really works, it’s not man made. It isn’t a flat, easy surface to run on. Be cautious of the uneven, slippery, and jagged surface. Also be aware, you should wear clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. Shoes are a different story. If you’re going to run on trails more often than not, think about getting a pair of trail shoes.
The best thing about trail shoes? They made specifically for the trail. They are made to be supportive and forgiving for the nature that they are meant to be used. They’ve got supportive grips for running over rocks and roots. Check out the other items you should consider when running on the trail.
Stretches to do before:
Quads
Hips
Calves
Gluteus Medius
The Park
This option is great for those with kids. Take your kids to the park and play on the playground with them. If you live close enough, have a quick walk to the park for a warm up, and then hit the monkey bars!
The Swings
The Monkey Bars
The Park Bench
Some things to consider: The park may be over crowded and there may not be a place for you to complete your entire workout. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings and make sure that you don’t injure anyone around you. This is a great workout for those that want to be outdoors and have the convenience of childcare.
Kayaking
Kayaking is great for your core, arms, and cardio. Pack a lunch and kayak the day away; Depending on the weather that day, the water may be more rapid than not. The great thing about the change in the water, there is a change up in your workout.
Some things to consider: Once you’re out in the middle of the water… You have to work to get out. Make sure that you have hydration and sunscreen
Stretches to do before:
Shoulder Warmup
Bicep Stretches
Tricep Stretch
Lateral Stretch
Chest Stretch
Hamstring Stretch
Hip Flexes
Scavenger Hunt
Create a mapped out journey of where you want to run. Make a mental note of things to do. For example, a cross walk, do high-knees across the cross walk. Make a list of other things that you can do during your run. Once you’ve completed your workout scavenger hunt, you’re done!
Some things to consider: The scavenger hunt has to be planned out and well organized for you to get the most from your workout. If you wish to do a workout scavenger hunt, plan it out ahead of time what you wish to do. If you don’t succeed the first time, try again the second time. The nice thing to this workout, you can make your own.
Your (Fur) Kids
If you don’t want to change your workout, just add your kids or fur children to the mix. Have you have pushed a stroller up the hill or tried to wrangle a dog down a hill. It takes a lot of resistance. Using this method of workout, you are basically using your own body and “natural resources” to get your workout in.
Some things to consider: This workout doesn’t necessarily make for a harder or more difficult workout, this makes for a fun workout. Just consider that your family members, furry and not, may not be used to your pace. This type of workout doesn’t just mean going for a run, try going on a bike ride as family or try taking a walk in the evening as a cool down from your workout.
Think outside the box with this workout! Working out outside, in the great outdoors, is not only great for you, but it’s great for your workout too. Changing your workout from routine to fun not only changes your tempo but throws your body for a loop when it comes changing up your routine. These are fun workout ideas and fun outdoor workout ideas at that, are great for those that need a change of scene, a change of pace. What are your favorite ways to workout outside? Are there specific spots you like to go? Are there places that you prefer to go? Share with us!
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