Every year we spend the Winter cooped up where it’s nice and warm. When Spring rolls around, we can’t wait to get outside. Getting outdoors can not only battle Spring fever, it also gets you up and moving. Exercising outdoors can give you a better workout and burn more calories than the machines at the gym. Typically this is because once you walk out a block or a mile, you have to come back home. lol As spring approaches, if you want to get outdoors and get in shape, here are some great activities you can do.
* 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 correctly. 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. If you’re bored of walking around your neighborhood, why not visit a nature park or zoo. Make sure that as you walk, you are swinging your arms. The more body parts that are moving, the more calories you are burning.
* Yoga. Sure, nowadays yoga is done in your living room or in a classroom, 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.  Your kids want to go to the park on a sunny day anyway. Why not enjoy some exercise with them. This will give you a 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, splash and play with your kids to enjoy even more exercise.
* 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 backyard. Volleyball is a great way to socialize with your friends, or to meet new people by joining a league. Check out your local parks and see where they have a net for the warmer months. Call your friends and plan a BBQ!
* Biking. More and more cities and towns are putting in bike paths. These are a great way to get a work out without risking serious injury by biking on rough terrain. However, if you’re upfor 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. As an avid mountain biker I have a few more tips to add. Many people don’t know about these nifty things called padded shorts. lol If you plan on biking at any length, I highly recommend getting a pair to save your bum as much as possible. Otherwise, make sure that you go out with plenty of water(camelbacks are the best to bring) and an energy bar. Towels are great too as you will be sweating up a storm.
* Hiking. If you want to get out and go, and you’re up for an adventure, why don’t you 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. Make a weekend of it and plan your camping trip around some place you’ve always wanted to hike.
So what are you waiting for? Get out of your artificial light and into the great outdoors for a workout and a fun time too. Enjoy all of the scenery around you.
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