5 Workouts That Are More Fun When Done Outdoors

If you're not a natural health junkie, working out may feel monotonous. You're stationary in one space while doing the same moves over and over again—that's practically the definition of tedious.

But instead of going to the gym, consider doing your next workout outdoors. The change of scenery can feel like a literal breath of fresh air.

Yoga

Nature and yoga are two things with relaxing effects, so why not combine them? While you do your breathing exercises, you will get to hear the beautiful noise of nature. Feel the soft breeze on your skin. You can smell the grass, water and more. Take in the beauty of life's natural wonders. Taste the salty air on your tongue. Mindfulness is about focusing on your senses, and nature will appeal to all five.

(via Shutterstock)

 

Cycling

In a high tech gym, you may have a cycling machine that mimics the sensation of biking outdoors with a first-person video. However, nothing compares to the real thing. You can feel the wind in your hair, and you can't beat the views. Plus, you'll get a more intense workout from the frequent inclination changes.

 

Also read about: Love Yoga? Here Are 5 More Relaxing Workouts You Should Try

 

Skating

Roller skating and blading is mostly an indoor thing—how often do you see a rink outdoors?—but that doesn't mean you can't do it outside. Some companies make tougher wheels to withstand the rough concrete. After all, making laps in a circle only goes so far. Your destination is endless when you skate in the great wide open.

 

Swimming

We'll give you one thing: swimming indoors is definitely the safest. That said, there is something totally freeing about swimming in a natural lake or ocean. You're not restricted to a straight lap, and you'll get to interact with fish if you're not scared.

If you aren't ready to dive into the deep end, consider finding an outdoor pool. Then, you can still feel the heat of the sun beam on your back.

(via Shutterstock)

 

Walking/Running

Once upon our time, we pretty much only did workouts on the treadmill. What no one prepares you for is how boring it is to stare at the gym. Sure, you could watch a movie, but we'd like to reserve that for our couch time. The change of scenery when walking (and running) outsides makes us feel even more engaged and motivated.

 

Searching for even more motivation for your workout? Click HERE to discover five affirmations you should tell yourself while exercising.