With COVID-19 still looming large, many of us are not heading to gyms or workout classes yet. According to the CDC, the safest way to workout outside the home is to head outdoors and engage in solo workouts. It’s important to prioritize exercise and health at all times, but especially during this pandemic.
With the guidance from the CDC, we’re encouraging you to head outdoors! We particularly love the combination of being outside and getting a good workout in. It’s helpful for your mind, body, and soul to recharge in nature.
To help you get outdoors and stay active, today’s post features our favorite outdoor workouts. The best part? All of these workouts are either free or almost free to do as well!
Check out the list below and start planning your next outdoor workout today!
5. Take a Hike
One of our favorite outdoor activities is to head to the mountains and go for a hike. Whether you’re a pro hiker or just starting out, there is a hike for you. We recommend you check out the local hikes in your area to find one that works best for you. We love the AllTrails website and app for finding the perfect one. It allows you to search trails by distance, difficulty level, proximity to your location, and more.
Besides getting a killer leg workout in, hiking is great because it allows you to recharge in the middle of nature. You can take the time to listen to the birds chirping, the trees moving, or the water in a nearby stream. Hiking gives you the space and ambiance to help you enjoy and embrace the moment.
Photo by Nina Uhlíková from Pexels
4. Practice Yoga Outside
Try adding some yoga to your workout routine! All you need is a mat and you’re ready to practice from wherever you are. Try doing an exercise in your backyard, local park, or even on an outdoor rooftop space if you have one.
There are different types of yoga to try; for a full-body and intense version try a vinyasa flow which typically has you move through more challenging poses at a quicker pace. For a slower pace, try a hatha yoga. This flow has you holding easier poses for longer and moving at a slower pace. No matter what flow you do, yoga is a great way to focus on breathing and meditation during your workout.
3. Head out for a Swim
It’s a great time to head out for a swim while we’re still in the heat of the summer! Whether you head out to the beach, lake, or an outdoor pool, swimming is a fantastic exercise and can scorch a ton of calories. According to MySwimPro, “A 130-pound person swimming freestyle for one hour will burn 590 calories swimming fast, and 413 calories swimming slower. A 155-pound person swimming freestyle for one hour will burn 704 calories swimming fast, and 493 calories swimming slower.” That’s a lot of calories!
It’s also a great full body exercise that works out your arms, legs, back, core, and more.
And, while you’re swimming, make sure you look good by wearing one of our HAPARI swimsuits! Check out our 2020 collection of new suits, styles, and prints! We’re also having our mid-summer sale! For a limited time, score 40% OFF with code: 40SUMMER. For more info on fits and sizing, be sure to check out our Size and Fit Guide.
2. Go for a Run
One of the cheapest and most accessible exercises you can do is to go for a jog or a run. Running improves aerobic fitness which helps improve cardiovascular health. It helps improve heart health, lung functioning, burns calories, and builds strength. It’s also free of charge and can be done most anywhere!
Make sure to wear supportive running shoes to limit the pressure on your legs, hips, and knees; especially if you have a previous injury. If you’re just starting out, try using a running program to help you get the hang of it. We like the Nike Run Club app or the Adidas Runtastic app. Both help you improve performance with trainers who ‘run with you’ as you workout. Give it a try!
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels
1. Bust out the Bike
If you have knee issues and running isn’t manageable for you, try busting out your bike instead! Cycling and biking is much easier on your body and gives you a lot of the same benefits as running. According to Better Health, “Regular cycling stimulates and improves your heart, lungs and circulation, reducing your risk of cardiovascular diseases. Cycling strengthens your heart muscles, lowers resting pulse and reduces blood fat levels.”
There are different kinds of bicycle-related workouts as well - off road/mountain biking, street cycling, e-biking, etc. - so if you don’t like one style you can try a different one to find one that fits you.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels
Ready for more lifestyle articles, product features and healthy living tips? Check out the other articles in our HAPARI blog. We include special product spotlights, healthy eating and fitness advice, and exclusive insider deals on our swimwear. See you there!