There I was, mindlessly churning my legs on the elliptical at the gym when the thought hit me, “it’s a gorgeous day outside!” The sun was shining, the breeze was cool, the air was fresh, but yet active people, myself included, were powering through their 5:00 p.m. workout indoors.
Working out has become a luxury. It is assumed that one cannot be physically fit without being the proud owner of a gym membership card and brand name sweat-proof fitness apparel. Admittedly, the gym has its perks including air conditioning, filtered water, televisions, and fluffy towels. Enjoying the luxury of a gym while burning calories is not wrong, you’re still beating every one on the couch; however, I urge you to embrace your primal side and try using the great outdoors as your fitness center. Combine endorphins and a dose of the outdoors, and you will experience a greater buzz than possible at the gym.
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Stumped on how to make trees a part of your new fitness zone? Walking or running outside are great options as they don’t require any equipment. Bicycling is another great option, although you obviously must own a bike. Even seemingly simple exercises such as jumping rope or hula hooping can be challenging workouts. Go crazy and create a fun routine out of your favorite outdoor exercises!
We’ve covered cardio, but what about strength training? There are tons of different body weight drills that are just as effective as repeatedly picking up and putting down weights at the gym. Push-ups and sit-ups are tried and true exercises, and old as they may be, they both still work just fine. Need to switch it up? Try squat jumps, walking lunges, or burpees. These three exercises also add a cardio boost. The best exercise circuits combine strength and endurance training.
Where you live affects the sort of outdoor activities you can do. If you live by mountains, take up rock climbing. Try out surfing if you live on the coast. If it’s always snowing where you live, bundle up and attempt skiing or snowboarding. The possibilities are endless, and I guarantee there is something for every climate and landscape.
Basically, my main point is, embrace your inner Tarzan. You never know the next time you will have to fight off a predator or hunt for prey, and I bet you will want to be well adapted to exerting energy outdoors.
