When the sun is shining and the weather perfect, who would rather head to the gym than spend time outdoors? Getting to burn calories and enjoy some fresh air is a combo that can’t be beat – leaving you feeling great and loaded up on vitamin D. And, while our first instinct is almost always to throw on the running shoes and hit the pavement, there are loads of other options for burning major calories outdoors. From biking to paddling, here’s a roundup of some of the most fun and challenging outdoor workouts around.
6 Ways to Burn Major Calories Outdoors
#1. Break out the rollerblades. Haven’t seen those in a while, eh? Well, they’re making a comeback in a big way – and there’s a reason why – inline skating offers a tough workout and burns major calories too. Using your legs, core and arms, this is a full body workout perfect for someone who wants to cover some serious distance on a bike or running path. You’ll feel great after an hour of this.
#2. Pump up the old bike tires. There’s a good chance you have an old bike sitting in the garage or basement, so why not dust it off and put it to good use? Now is the time to cover some serious mileage biking around town – add some hills and you’ve got a major calorie burner on your hands. Don’t forget the helmet!
#3. Hit the water with a kayak or canoe. Are you after those cut arms that look great in anything sleeveless? What better way than to put them to good work on the water. Break out the paddles and get moving – you’ll love the feeling of being out in the sun and on the water – it’s peaceful and a killer workout.
#4. Want to take it a step further? Why not try stand-up paddle boarding, also known as SUP? This puts those arms to work but also engages the core and legs – while you work to stay balanced. This is an ultimate strength builder and calorie burner.
#5. How about going for a hike? Has it been a while since you’ve checked out a state park or natural area? Why not make it a fun adventure and a workout all at once with a challenging exercise hike? Pick out your trail ahead of time (hopefully one with lots of hills), get out there and get moving. You’ll be exhausted at the end of this one – and will feel great too after burning major calories.
#6. It’s easy to forget about one of the best workouts around – swimming! Why not take it to your local outdoor pool or get straight into the ocean or a lake for some serious challenge. Swimming is a real challenge of endurance, burns a solid amount of calories and is that full body workout that’s also easy on your bones and joints. Great if you have an injury and still want to workout or if you’re just getting back into the exercise scene.
What do you think? Are you ready to take your workouts outside this summer?
