Getting outdoor active can be a lot of fun, and it’s an excellent way to improve your physical and mental health. If you’re just starting, there’s no need to worry because there are plenty of simple ways to get moving that are both fun and effective. In this post, we’ll cover nine easy ways to incorporate more outdoor active physical activity into your daily routine and that are perfect for beginners or veterans alike.
Walking
Walking is one of the easiest and most accessible forms of physical activity, and it’s perfect for beginners. Whether you’re taking a stroll around your neighborhood or walking to work, incorporating more walking into your routine is a simple way to get moving. To make it more fun, try exploring new areas or walking with a friend and if you are really interested in seeing how you progress think about purchasing a smart watch or other tech than can keep track of your outdoor active performance.
Hiking
Hiking is a great way to get outside, breathe in fresh air, and explore nature. It’s perfect for beginners because you can choose a trail that suits your fitness level. You don’t have to tackle a challenging mountain trail on your first hike so start out with a leisurely walk in a local park and gradually work your way up. Before you know it you will be looking for more challenging and scenic trails, buying better equipment and filling your Instagram account with amazing photos!
Biking
Biking is a low-impact form of exercise that’s easy on the joints, making it perfect for beginners. You don’t need to be an expert cyclist to get started and you can even incorporate bike riding into your daily commute. You can also take a leisurely ride around your neighborhood or use a bike to run errands. To make it more fun, try cycling with a friend or joining a local biking group.
Swimming
Swimming is a great way to get a full-body workout while also staying cool in the summer heat. It’s perfect for beginners because it’s a low-impact form of exercise and if you are new to swimming it is a life skill that can be learned regardless of your age. Try starting with a few laps in a pool or get outdoor active and take a dip in the ocean or a lake and before you know it you might just become a swimming fan.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a gentle form of martial arts that emphasizes slow, flowing movements. It’s a great way to improve flexibility, balance, and coordination (and it looks very cool when you see a group doing it!). Tai Chi can be practiced outdoors in a park or garden, and there are plenty of beginner-friendly classes available. Tai Chi is also a great way to explore mindset and meditation as they are often incorporated into the practice.
Running
Disclaimer – I only run if I am being chased or if I am chasing a soccer ball! Running is a high-impact form of exercise that’s great for beginners. You don’t need to be an expert runner to get started and you can start with a slow jog or a brisk walk and gradually work your way up. You can run solo or with a friend. To make it more fun, join a local running group or participate in a charity run. I have always wanted to conquer the Sun Run… maybe one year!
Kayaking
I LOVE Kayaking! It’s a great way to explore the outdoors and get outdoor active while also getting a full-body workout. It’s also perfect for beginners because you don’t need any prior experience. I purchased my first inflatable kayaks a couple years ago and after I found how easy and fun it was to get out on the water and explore I quickly upgraded them to better ones.
You don’t have to buy one though, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour where they are supplied before you make the investment. Kayaking is a fun and challenging way to get moving and enjoy the beauty of nature and I highly recommend giving it a try if you have yet to do so!
Outdoor Sports
There are so many benefits from playing team sports. Playing an outdoor sport is a great way to get moving and have fun while meeting new people and getting more socially active. It’s perfect for beginners because you don’t need to be an expert athlete to get started and most people out there are at a similar level of play as you are.
There are a variety of local leagues or you can play casually with friends; you just need to pick a sport that is interesting to you. Outdoor sports are a great way to build camaraderie, improve your skills, and get in shape at the same time and most have after game beverages and snacks to continue the fun!
Gardening
Gardening is a great way to get moving and enjoy the beauty of nature at the same time. It’s perfect for beginners because you can start small and gradually work your way up and you do not need to have a yard to do it, just a sunny window and some pots with soil and you are all set! You can plant flowers, tend to a vegetable garden, or even prune bushes if you have them and the rewards of your labor can be shared with friends and family.
Gardening is a fun and rewarding way to get your hands dirty and improve your physical health and its great for the environment when you choose plants that attract bees or other important creatures.
Now Go Get Outdoor Active
In conclusion, incorporating more physical activity into your daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, and it can be a lot of fun. By making trying simple outdoor active things from above you will find yourself being drawn to do more and more as you learn to love being outdoors. And the best thing about outdoor activities is that you can share them with friends or do them solo; it’s up to you!
