11 Fun Outdoor Activities That Count as Green Exercise
Traditional gym routines are fun but can feel monotonous. Why not take your workout outside for an inspiring change of scenery? Add these exciting exercises to your fitness plan to get your heart pumping and boost your mental capacity.
What Is a Green Exercise?
Green exercise is any physical activity that occurs outdoors. It combines the therapeutic benefits of being in nature and the holistic advantages of working out. Unlike indoor activities, outdoor movement encourages you to bask in the world’s beauty. Hear the birds chirp, smell fresh grass and soak up the sun’s warmth while you strengthen your bones, muscles and joints.
What Are Examples of Green Exercises?
Consider adding these activities to your fitness routine.
1. Nature Walk
Walking is one of the most rewarding, invigorating outdoor exercises for all ages. You can do it alone, with your partner or the whole family. Pick a nearby park and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Even a five-minute walk can improve your mood, relaxation and self-esteem, leaving you feeling more positive to face your daily responsibilities.
2. Hiking
Try hiking if you need a break from your usual neighborhood loop. It’s a fulfilling experience that allows you to walk through wooded, steep trails and offers physical health benefits. When choosing a trail, evaluate your fitness level and hiking experience. If you’re a beginner, start with less challenging roads to build your confidence and stamina.
3. Outdoor Yoga
Why not move your typical yoga routine into your backyard or a local park with friends? Doing the poses outside lets you connect with nature. The fresh air will aid breathing techniques, making you more aware of your body. Moreover, it’s an ideal way to get your daily dose of vitamin D, essential for bone health and muscle function.
4. Skateboarding
Skateboarding is an excellent example of a green exercise that can help boost social connection. It helps unite people, letting you expand your social circle. With proper guidance and progression, you can work your way up to doing simple tricks to impress your family and friends. All you need is a skateboard, safety gear and confidence to succeed.
5. Surfing
Similar to skateboarding, surfing tests your balancing skills on the water. It’s a highly rewarding activity that provides an adrenaline rush as you ride an ocean wave. However, it requires lessons with an experienced instructor. The experience will be worth the cost of tuition.
6. Cycling
Indoor spin classes are fun and high-energy, but cycling outside offers better airflow, so you can stay cooler. Plus, you’ll benefit from the sun and beautiful views. It’s an excellent activity that aids in weight loss and mental performance. Bring mindfulness into your workout by focusing on your pace or the road ahead.
7. Playground Obstacle Course
Reconnect with your inner child on a playground. Some parks offer adult obstacle courses that challenge your physical and mental strength. Using this exercise equipment can improve your flexibility and balance, while having fun with your peers. It’s a win-win situation.
8. Beach Volleyball
If you are lucky enough to live near the beach, outdoor volleyball is a green exercise that encourages teamwork and endurance while soaking up the sun. Plus, you can go for a swim after a match.
9. Trail Running
Trail running requires you to complete a fixed course as quickly as possible. You can run on paved roads or tackle uneven terrain in the woods. It’s a demanding exercise, but a highly rewarding one due to the scenic views.
10. Kayaking
Though kayaking may look simple, it is a total-body workout. This fun, beginner-friendly exercise teaches you proper balance and targets multiple muscle groups while you soak in nature’s breathtaking beauty.
11. Gardening
Gardening is a fantastic example of green exercise for many reasons — it benefits your physical and mental health and encourages you to live sustainably. Digging, raking, planting and watering plants in the garden will boost your heart rate while you commune with nature and experience the satisfaction of growing food for your loved ones.
What Are the Benefits of Green Exercises?
According to social scientist Michelle Kondo, getting outdoors provides physical and psychological benefits, such as lower stress levels and muscle tension. Moreover, it can decrease the risk of depression and boost your mental capacity. The outdoors also serves as a place where you can bond over fun activities with family and friends. This togetherness is essential for boosting your social wellness.
Is Outdoor Exercise Better Than Indoor Activity?
Spending time outdoors provides multiple advantages for your physical and mental well-being. A study showed that strolling outside helped participants concentrate and respond faster than walking indoors. If you want to increase your outdoor activity, identify green spaces in your community and dedicate time to at least one outside exercise daily.
Prepare for outdoor activities with proper skin protection, clothing and hydration, especially during hotter months. Stay safe while enjoying green exercises by understanding the ground rules. For instance, runners should know which side of the path or trail to keep to.
Get Fit in the Great Outdoors
These outdoor exercise examples prove that you can improve your physical, mental and — in some cases — social wellness. If you want to improve your health, consider getting outside as part of your routine to experience the joy of exercising sustainably.
