Spring is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine and fresh air while staying active and healthy. There are many outdoor activities that you can do to improve your physical fitness and overall well-being. Here are five of the best spring workouts that you can do outside:
- Running
Running is a great way to get your heart pumping and burn calories. Spring is the perfect time to start running because the weather is not too hot or too cold. You can run in your neighborhood, park, or on a nearby trail. Running can improve your cardiovascular health, increase your endurance, and help you lose weight. Start with shorter distances, or a combination of walking and running as you progress. Fitness apps like Strava make it easy to record your distances and track progress.
- Hiking
Hiking is a fun and challenging outdoor activity that can improve your fitness level and mental health. You can hike on local trails, at parks, or while traveling. Hiking can strengthen your muscles, increase your stamina, and reduce stress. Make sure to wear appropriate hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks. St. Louis has some excellent hiking trails at Castlewood State Park, Lone Elk Park, Don Robinson State Park, or take a road trip out to Elephant Rocks State Park.
- Cycling
Cycling is a low-impact cardio workout that can be done outdoors. You can ride your bike on a bike path, road, or trails. Cycling can improve your cardiovascular health, tone your legs, and help you lose weight. You can also enjoy the scenery and fresh air while cycling. Great Rivers Greenway offers a variety of trails, or you can visit the Katy Trail to enjoy over 200 miles of biking trails.
- Yoga
Yoga is a low-impact and stress-relieving workout that can be done outside. You can do yoga on your patio, at a park, or participate in a local meet-up for yoga. Yoga improves flexibility, balance, and mental clarity. You can also reduce stress and anxiety by practicing yoga outdoors. Many St. Louis yoga studios offer outdoor classes during spring and summer.
- Outdoor Circuit Training
Outdoor circuit training is a combination of cardio and strength exercises that can be done in a park or playground. You can do exercises such as jumping jacks, squats, lunges, push-ups, and burpees. Outdoor circuit training can improve your cardiovascular health, increase your strength, and help you burn calories.
There are many outdoor activities that you can do to stay active and healthy in the spring. Running, hiking, cycling, yoga, and outdoor circuit training are just a few great examples. So, put on your sunscreen, grab a water bottle, and get outside to enjoy the beautiful weather while improving your physical fitness and well-being this spring!