The best outdoor exercises

A classic in terms of outdoor exercises, there are many reasons running is so popular – it takes minimal preparation time or equipment and can be done pretty much wherever, so long as you have some good running trainers. Running also offers a myriad of health benefits. It’s not only great for boosting circulation and strengthening your heart, but it helps build muscle and joint strength and has a positive impact on mental wellbeing too. Not only that, but running is a particularly efficient form of exercise, meaning even a shorter workout quickly burns calories and boosts your fitness. 

For those who find running difficult to get into, circuit training is an excellent alternative. It offers similar high-levels of cardio, but with more variety, so can feel a little less monotonous. Circuit training is often thought of like a gym activity, but it’s one which is fairly easy to transfer to the great outdoors. The trick is to go for exercises which don’t require much equipment. Squats, jumps, burpees, push-ups, crunches and lunges are all great bodyweight movements which means all you need to bring is yourself (and a bottle of water of course!). Then, all you need is a bit of open space – a park, a beach or even a garden can all serve as a great workout zone.

Cycling can be a great way to combine sightseeing with exercise, so you’ve got plenty of distraction from the thigh burn. Cycling burns calories and builds muscle quickly, making it a great way to improve your overall strength and endurance. There are mental benefits to getting on your bike, too. A bike ride is an optimum time to let off some steam and raise those endorphins which can help improve mood and mental clarity by lowering stress levels. Go far and wide, around the block, solo or with friends, cycling is as versatile as you like. 

If you’re lucky enough to live near an outdoor pool or a beach, water sports are the way to go. Swimming helps work every muscle of the body, making it a great all-rounder, not to mention a blissful way to cool off in the hotter months. It’s another exercise that offers great mental benefits, too, helping you minimise stress and giving you a chance to gather your thoughts. Other fun forms of water-based outdoor exercise include sailing, surfing, rowing and kayaking which are all excellent workouts for your biceps and triceps and can be done solo or with a team. Surfing is great for the more adventurous spirits and helps maximise your reflexes and core strength. 

If you have more time and want to make a day of your workout, hiking is a great way to explore an area, and if you find a route that’s as scenic as it is challenging, then it’s a win-win. Hiking can be a surprisingly effective form of exercise, as it tends to require cardiovascular endurance, alongside strength and balance. It’s also a prime opportunity to spend some quality time with loved ones, you can even bring the dog along too if you have one. 

Another fun way to enjoy an al fresco workout is with group sports. Things like tennis, football, rounders, cricket or volleyball can all get your blood pumping and improve overall fitness. Many don’t require too much extra equipment and are a great way to spend time with friends and family. If you’ve got a competitive streak then go head to head and you’ll forget you’re even doing a workout! 

There are all sorts of adventurous exercises that can make for great hobbies, or you could try an activity-based holiday to maintain your fitness fix. Skiing and snowboarding, while unlikely to be a part of your every day, can make a great holiday workout, especially for the legs and core. Climbing is another outdoor exercise that can be a real test of core strength and balance which many find hugely invigorating and enjoyable. While these types of workout aren't so easy to incorporate as a part of a routine, they can make a great once-in-a-while session that you’ll really enjoy.