Summer is a great time to take advantage of the outdoors. Warm sun, cool breezes, birdsong and brilliant greens make it the perfect place to work out. If you’re not the type to hit the gym or lift weights, there are plenty of ways to get your body moving. You won’t even notice you’re sweating because you’ll be distracted by the beauty of the outdoors and how much fun you’re having! In my opinion, a workout that doesn’t feel like it is best. Today I’ve rounded up 15 workouts you can do outdoors this summer. Take advantage of this wonderful weather while it lasts.
15 workouts to do outdoors this summer
stand up paddle surfing
Don’t be fooled, from an onlooker’s point of view, stand-up paddle boarding may seem easy and effortless, but it’s a full-body workout. It requires a lot of balance and core strength, but it’s also incredibly calm to glide through a pond, lake or ocean. Looking to invest in your own paddle board? blow up the paddle board Great because they’re easy to assemble, enjoy and break down into a small, compact compartment for getting to and from where you need to go. You can even try stand-up paddle board yoga for an extra challenge! Yoga Magazine has some great tips for beginners!
Hike, walk or run
Walking and running may be the easiest outdoor exercise, but it’s something you can do every day, even for 10 or 20 minutes. Being outdoors has many benefits for your mind and body! You can simply walk along the street, around the block or in the woods. If you’re looking for more adventure, check out local hikes or walks in your area. Make a list of things you want to do throughout the summer to try and change it. Changing the landscape is truly magical. We all feel comfortable on our favorite walks, but trying new things can be very rewarding. Invite friends or make it a family affair. Bring bug spray, sunscreen, snacks and water. Make sure to wear the right shoes and clothes for the weather!If you are in the Woodstock area try tom hill or peg hill Hike and enjoy the view from the top of the mountain.
ride a bike
Whether you’re a cyclist or an adventurous mountain biker, biking is a fun and enjoyable outdoor activity. Electric bikes make it possible to travel greater distances without the need to get out of breath.If you’re in the Woodstock area try Woodstock Wheels. This is a great way to rent an electric bike and get pre-drawn routes that show you the best of Vermont.
play golf
Golf is known for being a sport you can enjoy for a lifetime. It takes a lot of patience and skill and can be very frustrating if you don’t quite figure it out. If you are a novice or haven’t played in a few years, we recommend taking a class. It’s best to start with the correct note. Golf has a lot of technical details, and the key is not to overthink it. Have fun and enjoy those strokes that make an incredibly satisfying hiss. When it happens, you’ll know what I’m talking about.
play pickle balls
Pickle balls are on my summer bucket list! I haven’t played it, but I love tennis and heard it’s similar, like a fun mini tennis game. For those who aren’t tennis players, I think pickle balls are easier to pick up on the fly. Maybe gather a group of friends and plan to study together. Check out classes or group classes at your local courthouse or club.
Kayak/Canoe
The kayaks and canoes are very relaxing and peaceful. My husband and I bought an inflatable kayak for our wedding a few years ago and we love it. Although people are so kindly telling us it’s also called the “divorce car”, it’s been working great for us so far! We love going to and cruising around our local lake, Silver Lake in Barnard, Vermont, dreaming of one day owning a waterfront property and stopping at various locations to swim and relax. Bonus, this is a great arm and core workout! Although I usually let my husband do most of the work…
yoga
Yoga is my go-to for summer workouts and spiritual practice, and I practice it almost exclusively outdoors. It really adds to the focus of the meditation and brings me back to the present moment. I’ve been teaching sunrise yoga classes outdoors at our local pond at 6am on Wednesdays. Watching the sunrise over the mountains, the ducklings crossing the pond, the deer squeaking behind their mothers, and the birds singing, it’s amazing. Such a great start to the day after the entire morning section is over. Find local outdoor yoga classes in your area! You won’t be disappointed!
play tennis
My husband and I just went on a date for our anniversary and played a game of tennis together. It’s been a while since I was the guy who played tennis in high school and he won…but it was so much fun! Healthy competition is so energizing for the soul! Find a friend or partner to play singles, or a few friends to try out doubles.Check Jesse’s post about her favorite tennis gear!
basketball
I’m not a golfer, but for those who are, this is a great way to get you sweaty and get your heart racing! Gather a group of people to play under the lights of your local stadium each week, or bring your family to play together.
Dance
We danced hard at a local outdoor music festival last week and it was so soulful! Dancing releases stress and is a great full-body workout. Play some local outdoor music in your backyard or play some tunes and move your body! Traveling through the mountains, trees and fields feels so free!
surf
If you have access to rough beaches, surfing is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the ocean and get your heart pumping. This is a meditation practice that frees your mind from everything but living in the moment and catching the waves.There are also a lot of wave pools now, so even if If you are a landlocked country, try artificial waves!
swim
Swimming in a lake, pond, pool or ocean is another way to release stress, anxiety and depression. A cold shock to your body actually has many benefits for your mind and body. Water is also gentler on your joints and muscles and is a great way to stay active while you’re trying to recover from an injury. Want to try something new?how about one Mermaid Lesson? Mermaid fins are apparently new this summer, and you can take lessons to learn how to swim. This looks like a great workout! You can fulfill all your childhood dreams while doing so. why not?
football
Our neighbors have netted a soccer field in their yard and host a weekly soccer night. It’s a great way to get people together every week during the summer for some outdoor competitive fun. Another way to sweat and raise your heart rate while having fun. Looking to take your football game to the next level?try bubble football! Kids and adults alike will love it, and you’ll be laughing all the time!
volleyball
Volleyball is another fun, competitive team sport that can be done with a group of friends or family. Gather your troops, form a team and find the local volleyball court or take it to the beach.
rock climbing
For thrill seekers, rock climbing is a great way to get out and enjoy the boulders. Not for the faint of heart, make sure you have the proper gear and training. Always travel with friends and take the necessary precautions. Rock climbing will challenge you and give you the satisfaction of overcoming your fears and working towards new limits.
What is your favorite outdoor sport in summer? Let us know in the comments below!
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