1. Families Reconnect With Outdoor Exercise
Leave the TV, Internet and cell phones at home and gather up the kids for some old fashioned outdoor entertainment. Spend an afternoon hiking or biking with your kids. Get plenty of outdoor exercise on a camping vacation or a trip to the beach. At home, set up a volleyball or badminton net in the back yard or play a game of flag football. Even a simple bike ride around the block or walk in the local park can be quality time as a family while still getting outdoor exercise.
2. Outdoor Exercise is Easy on the Wallet
Skip the pricey exercise equipment and expensive gym passes. Mother Nature offers a free pass. The only equipment you need for many outdoor activities is a good pair of running sneakers and appropriate outdoor clothing. If the outdoor activity you are interested in does require something expensive, like a mountain bike or cross-country skis, opt for borrowing from a friend to see how you like the activity. If it something you know you'll stick with, then go ahead and make the investment. It will pay for itself over time.
3. Turn Chores Into Outdoor Exercise
Kill two birds with one stone when you clean up your yard. Raking, weeding, lifting and pushing are all great exercises. In good weather, make it a point to spend some extra time outside, in the garden or flower beds. You could even offer to do yard work for an elderly relative or neighbor, mixing good deeds and outdoor exercise.
4. The Outdoors is Always Available
The outdoors is always available for a workout. No matter if you want a morning jog, lunchtime stroll or evening walk. Another bonus of outdoor exercise is that is less crowded than a gym. You will never have to wander around aimlessly waiting for an elliptical trainer to open up. Planning to exercise outside can save you time, letting you get right to your workout.
5. Safety Comes First
A few precautions you need to take during outdoor exercise don't apply at the gym. Always dress according to the weather. Layer clothes in the winter to avoid getting too cold. Look for exercise clothes, like Lycra-spandex shirts and shorts that help wick sweat from the body, helping you stay dry and warm. Don't forget to apply sunscreen a half hour before you plan to go out, even in the winter. If you plan to be out at dusk or dark, wear some kind of reflective clothing so cars know you're there. And always wear a helmet when you are biking, skiing or snowboarding.
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