Going to the gym is one of the most popular ways to exercise. However, if you are looking for an alternative, there are exercises you can do outdoors that can provide the same benefits as exercising in the gym or even more. There are also various benefits to exercising outdoors, including the following:
- It can help prevent anxiety and depression because exposure to the sun increases the production of serotonin, a feel-good hormone.
- The outdoor terrains can be more challenging, making your body work harder.
- The outdoors can be refreshing, so it’s easier to stick with the exercise.
- It can also serve as a bonding with family and friends.
If you're interested in trying outdoor activities to serve as alternatives to your gym exercise, you may consider some of the options below.
Swimming
Swimming gives you a full-body workout as you use every part of your body to push against the waters and stay afloat. If you're close to the beach or lake, that's even better, as you can go anytime and don't have to spend anything. You also don't need much to get started. Pick your favorite swimwear, and you'll be good to go. Investing in water shoes is also a good idea, especially if exploring slippery and muddy areas. The best water shoes for men would make the activity safer and more comfortable. Plus, you can protect your feet from objects that could hurt, like sharp rocks and corals.
Hiking
If your focus is on your core and below, hiking is something that would suit you. It involves a lot of walking, depending on your chosen trail. The terrains can be uneven, and challenging ones would test your balance and strength. If you’re a beginner, you can start with trails that last a few hours. Once you develop stamina, you can find hiking trails that take days to complete. Continuous walking can burn calories, which is perfect if you want to shed unwanted pounds.
Cycling
Although you can easily get a stationary bike that you can use at home, biking outside has more benefits. Besides the fresh air and nature that relieve stress, it also requires you to maintain balance, strengthening your core. Other body parts you target and develop when cycling are the back, shoulders, arms, calves, quads, hamstrings, and glutes. You may also join cycling groups that improve your social life and, at the same time, motivate you to be consistent, as these groups usually have scheduled activities that you can participate in.
Running
Get your heart pumping and improve your blood circulation by running around the neighborhood, park, or track. Find the best places to run around your area for a change of scenery, which makes the activity more fun. Then, slip on your most comfortable running outfit and shoes, and sweat it out while playing your favorite music.
The gym is not the only place to exercise and get fit. There are various activities you can do outdoors that can also help you achieve your fitness goal.