Walking, jogging, or running are all great ways to work out outdoors, but there are plenty of other exercises you can do outside as well. If you have access to a playground or park, you can often use equipment there (benches, monkey bars, etc.) as workout equipment - use it as your own outdoor gym!
But if not, there are lots of other things you can do without any equipment at all. Yoga and Tai Chi are great relaxing workouts to do in the great outdoors.
Or you can do a number of free form exercises like those in the video below, including lunges, pushups, and more.
This workout does include a short warmup and cool down, and requires no equipment at all, so you really can do it anywhere - even on the beach during summer vacation - so you have no excuse not to work out!
Showing posts with label outdoor exercise. Show all posts
Showing posts with label outdoor exercise. Show all posts
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
5 Benefits of Biking To Work
Do you commute every day? If so, then you and I have something in common, along with tens of millions of others. Many people choose to drive to work, while others may take a train or bus. However, few choose to cycle. But cycling could be the best choice of all, and here’s why:
1) Save Money: Choosing to cycle to work is pretty much guaranteed to save you money, and who isn’t looking to save money in these difficult times? Firstly, you don’t have to pay for a car in the first place. Secondly, you don’t have to pay any tax for your car. Thirdly, you don’t have to pay for fuel and, well, you get the picture.
If you’re using any kind of transport other than your own two feet to get to work every day, then you’ll almost certainly save money by going on a bicycle instead.
2) Improve Your Health: With many of us doing little more than sitting at a computer all day while at work, exercise is becoming more and more important to living well. It’s your body that keeps you going day in and day out, so it’s important to keep it in decent shape.
Cycling to work is a fantastic way to help keep your body healthy. By cycling, you’ll also eliminate the need to spend so many hours in the gym before and after work, saving you money and also time.
3) Clear Your Mind: Those who exercise regularly know how good it can feel for the body, but they also know it feels good for the mind. Exercise can help clear your mind, distracting you from your worries and concerns. It’s also a known fact that cardiovascular exercise can help with mental health, reducing both anxiety and depression.
4) Help The Environment: Global warming scientists suggest that we could have a big problem on our hands if we don’t start to take action right now, and the best place to start is with your carbon emissions. One of the biggest sources of these emissions is car travel. By using your car less, you can directly contribute to reduced carbon emissions.
5) Save Time: Although cycling isn’t usually thought of as the fastest way to travel, it clearly beats walking. However, on commutes where there’s a lot of traffic, cycling can also be quicker than travel by bus or car if you don't live too far away. Even if it’s slower than your car journey, you’ll still get to work pretty quickly, and can enjoy the other benefits listed above at the same time.
Spring is a great time to get outdoors and onto your bike, so there's never been a better time to incorporate bicycling into your daily transportation and exercise routines.
1) Save Money: Choosing to cycle to work is pretty much guaranteed to save you money, and who isn’t looking to save money in these difficult times? Firstly, you don’t have to pay for a car in the first place. Secondly, you don’t have to pay any tax for your car. Thirdly, you don’t have to pay for fuel and, well, you get the picture.
If you’re using any kind of transport other than your own two feet to get to work every day, then you’ll almost certainly save money by going on a bicycle instead.
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| (Photo credit: tejvanphotos) |
Cycling to work is a fantastic way to help keep your body healthy. By cycling, you’ll also eliminate the need to spend so many hours in the gym before and after work, saving you money and also time.
3) Clear Your Mind: Those who exercise regularly know how good it can feel for the body, but they also know it feels good for the mind. Exercise can help clear your mind, distracting you from your worries and concerns. It’s also a known fact that cardiovascular exercise can help with mental health, reducing both anxiety and depression.
4) Help The Environment: Global warming scientists suggest that we could have a big problem on our hands if we don’t start to take action right now, and the best place to start is with your carbon emissions. One of the biggest sources of these emissions is car travel. By using your car less, you can directly contribute to reduced carbon emissions.
5) Save Time: Although cycling isn’t usually thought of as the fastest way to travel, it clearly beats walking. However, on commutes where there’s a lot of traffic, cycling can also be quicker than travel by bus or car if you don't live too far away. Even if it’s slower than your car journey, you’ll still get to work pretty quickly, and can enjoy the other benefits listed above at the same time.
Spring is a great time to get outdoors and onto your bike, so there's never been a better time to incorporate bicycling into your daily transportation and exercise routines.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Video - Quick Outdoor Circuit Workout
There are lots of fun outdoor activities available to you now that the weather is warming up. From bike-riding, to swimming, hiking, volleyball and other sports, and more (see Tuesday's post for several fun ideas), you can find lots to do outside that is great exercise at the same time. But if you like the more "traditional" exercises, that doesn't mean you're limited to the gym or an indoor workout. Check out this video for some ideas of a quick circuit of exercises you can do outdoors or pretty much anywhere. The video also shows advanced modifications if you want to up the intensity. No equipment needed! Just put on some shoes and sweats or other comfortable clothing and you're good to go.
Outdoor Circuit Workout
www.facebook.com Subscribe & Comment! Awesome, easy, fun outdoor workout that anyone can do. Check it out! Your going to do this little circuit 2 times! Lots of modifications for everyone so NO EXCUSES :-) So put on your fav playlist and get moving! ...
Outdoor Circuit Workout
www.facebook.com Subscribe & Comment! Awesome, easy, fun outdoor workout that anyone can do. Check it out! Your going to do this little circuit 2 times! Lots of modifications for everyone so NO EXCUSES :-) So put on your fav playlist and get moving! ...
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Outdoor Exercises to Combat Spring Fever
Every year we spend the winter cooped up inside - although this year not as long as usual for many parts of the country. Nonetheless, now that spring is here, we can’t wait to get outside! Getting outdoors can not only battle spring fever, it can also get you up and moving, and start losing those leftover holiday pounds. Exercising outdoors can give you a better workout and burn more 
Exercising (Photo credit: NOAA's National Ocean Service)calories than the machines at the gym, as you tend to work more muscles and get a better overall full-body workout. As spring approaches, if you want to get outdoors and get in shape, here are some great activities you can do to start getting in shape, while enjoying this beautiful spring weather.
* Walking. Not only is walking a great way to get some fresh air and sunshine after being cooped up all winter, it’s also great exercise if you do it right. For an optimal workout, walk for an hour a day at least three days a week. You should also alter your pace during the walk, i.e. go as fast as you can for a minute, then a slower pace for a minute, etc. This will get your heart pumping without having to do a hard workout, and studies have shown it will help you lose weight MUCH faster than maintaining a steady pace for the whole time. If you’re bored of walking around your neighborhood, why not visit a nature park or zoo? You can enjoy the change of scenery and wildlife, while getting a workout in!
* Yoga. Sure, nowadays yoga is often done in your living room or in a gym, but this art was made to be done in the great outdoors! So tote your yoga mat to the park or just to the backyard. This can give you an excellent toning and strengthening workout and calm your nerves at the same time.
* Swimming. Want to get a fantastic full body workout while your kids are playing? Then take them down to the community pool. Many pools have an area for kids to splash and play while the adults swim laps. Just make sure not to leave any child that doesn’t know how to swim without adult supervision. And when you’re done with your laps, maybe you can splash and play with your kids too.
Mountain biking in Arizona desert, USA (Photo credit: Wikipedia)* Volleyball. This sport doesn’t have to be played inside with a ref; you can play at a sand volleyball court, or just set up a net in your back yard. Volleyball is a great way to socialize with your friends, or to meet new people by joining a league. And if you have kids, this is a great form of fun exercise for the whole family.
* Biking. More and more cities and towns are putting in bike paths. These are a great way to get a workout without risking serious injury by biking on rough terrain. However, if you’re up for a challenge, there are probably paths through woods, hills, mountains, or some other difficult, but rewarding terrain. Just be sure to wear proper safety equipment no matter where you’re biking.
* Hiking. If you want to get out and go, and you’re up for an adventure, why not take the family and go for a hike? You can experience nature, get a great workout, get some fresh air, and spend some quality bonding time with your family.
So what are you waiting for? Get out of your artificial lighting and into the great outdoors for a workout and a fun time at the same time!
Exercising (Photo credit: NOAA's National Ocean Service)calories than the machines at the gym, as you tend to work more muscles and get a better overall full-body workout. As spring approaches, if you want to get outdoors and get in shape, here are some great activities you can do to start getting in shape, while enjoying this beautiful spring weather. * Walking. Not only is walking a great way to get some fresh air and sunshine after being cooped up all winter, it’s also great exercise if you do it right. For an optimal workout, walk for an hour a day at least three days a week. You should also alter your pace during the walk, i.e. go as fast as you can for a minute, then a slower pace for a minute, etc. This will get your heart pumping without having to do a hard workout, and studies have shown it will help you lose weight MUCH faster than maintaining a steady pace for the whole time. If you’re bored of walking around your neighborhood, why not visit a nature park or zoo? You can enjoy the change of scenery and wildlife, while getting a workout in!
* Yoga. Sure, nowadays yoga is often done in your living room or in a gym, but this art was made to be done in the great outdoors! So tote your yoga mat to the park or just to the backyard. This can give you an excellent toning and strengthening workout and calm your nerves at the same time.
* Swimming. Want to get a fantastic full body workout while your kids are playing? Then take them down to the community pool. Many pools have an area for kids to splash and play while the adults swim laps. Just make sure not to leave any child that doesn’t know how to swim without adult supervision. And when you’re done with your laps, maybe you can splash and play with your kids too.
Mountain biking in Arizona desert, USA (Photo credit: Wikipedia)* Volleyball. This sport doesn’t have to be played inside with a ref; you can play at a sand volleyball court, or just set up a net in your back yard. Volleyball is a great way to socialize with your friends, or to meet new people by joining a league. And if you have kids, this is a great form of fun exercise for the whole family.* Biking. More and more cities and towns are putting in bike paths. These are a great way to get a workout without risking serious injury by biking on rough terrain. However, if you’re up for a challenge, there are probably paths through woods, hills, mountains, or some other difficult, but rewarding terrain. Just be sure to wear proper safety equipment no matter where you’re biking.
* Hiking. If you want to get out and go, and you’re up for an adventure, why not take the family and go for a hike? You can experience nature, get a great workout, get some fresh air, and spend some quality bonding time with your family.
So what are you waiting for? Get out of your artificial lighting and into the great outdoors for a workout and a fun time at the same time!
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Safety in the Summer Sun
This time of year, you may be exercising outside quite a bit, so this timely article can help you make the most of your time in the sun, and protect your little ones as well.
Image via WikipediaPrecautions should be taken year-round to protect skin from the harsh affects of the sun. But this is especially important in the summertime when the sun is at its hottest. Aside from sunburns, heatstroke and dehydration are additional hazards to watch out for - especially in young children. But with a few safety steps and by planning ahead you can avoid sunburns and the like.
The best way to prevent sunburns, heatstroke and dehydration is to stay out of the sun. But that isn’t practical or very fun. Buy sunscreen that is specifically made for children and be sure to apply it at least 30 minutes prior to going outside. This gives the sunscreen time to work. Once outside, reapply every two hours or more frequently if there is swimming or a sprinkler involved. However, many people are becoming aware of the dangers of sunscreen itself - be sure to check out our recent article featuring EWG's sunscreen guide, to find one that is both safe and effective, and doesn't expose you or your little ones to harmful and potentially cancer-causing toxins.
Image by epSos.de via FlickrOnce outside, a hat is still important. Ideally the hat will cover the face, ears and the back of the neck – all very sensitive body parts that are prone to getting burnt. Wearing a hat will also protect you and the kids against heatstroke. Have water available for each child - and for yourself - when playing outside. The combination of exercise and the hot sun can quickly dehydrate little bodies.
Staying out of the sun from 11:00 a.m. until after 3:00 p.m. is the best prevention. This is the hottest time of the day when the sun is at its peak. By avoiding the outdoors at this time of day you can prevent sun related illnesses. If this isn’t possible seek out some shade to take a break in. Avoiding the sun isn’t always the best solution -- it is being smart when you are out in it.
Image via WikipediaPrecautions should be taken year-round to protect skin from the harsh affects of the sun. But this is especially important in the summertime when the sun is at its hottest. Aside from sunburns, heatstroke and dehydration are additional hazards to watch out for - especially in young children. But with a few safety steps and by planning ahead you can avoid sunburns and the like.The best way to prevent sunburns, heatstroke and dehydration is to stay out of the sun. But that isn’t practical or very fun. Buy sunscreen that is specifically made for children and be sure to apply it at least 30 minutes prior to going outside. This gives the sunscreen time to work. Once outside, reapply every two hours or more frequently if there is swimming or a sprinkler involved. However, many people are becoming aware of the dangers of sunscreen itself - be sure to check out our recent article featuring EWG's sunscreen guide, to find one that is both safe and effective, and doesn't expose you or your little ones to harmful and potentially cancer-causing toxins.
Image by epSos.de via FlickrOnce outside, a hat is still important. Ideally the hat will cover the face, ears and the back of the neck – all very sensitive body parts that are prone to getting burnt. Wearing a hat will also protect you and the kids against heatstroke. Have water available for each child - and for yourself - when playing outside. The combination of exercise and the hot sun can quickly dehydrate little bodies.Staying out of the sun from 11:00 a.m. until after 3:00 p.m. is the best prevention. This is the hottest time of the day when the sun is at its peak. By avoiding the outdoors at this time of day you can prevent sun related illnesses. If this isn’t possible seek out some shade to take a break in. Avoiding the sun isn’t always the best solution -- it is being smart when you are out in it.
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