Spring into Exercise: 5 Fun Fitness Activities to Enjoy Outdoors 

by Natalie Meriwether, BSN

As the weather warms up and nature comes alive, it’s the perfect time to step outside and move your body while enjoying the beauty of spring. Engaging in outdoor activities not only allows you to soak up the sunshine but also offers numerous physical, mental, and social benefits. In this blog, we’ll explore fun fitness activities to enjoy outdoors that can help you get your daily movement in and spring into exercise. 

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Pickleball: A fun and social game for everyone 

Pickleball is a fun and lively game that’s gained recent popularity and for good reason! Combining elements of tennis and ping-pong, this paddle sport is played on a small court with a modified tennis net using solid paddles and a small plastic ball with holes.  

The game is quick and requires you to put your reflexes, hand-eye coordination, and stamina to the test. Along with mental stimulation, it’s a truly enjoyable cardio workout and provides an excellent opportunity for a fun competition with friends and family. 

Kayaking: Glide through serene waters 

Kayaking is a relaxing water activity that involves paddling a small, narrow boat called a kayak through various bodies of water like rivers, lakes, or the ocean. Kayaking is a great way to connect with nature, reduce mental stress, and challenge your upper body strength. 

Kayaks come in single or double seating, so you can enjoy in solidarity or bond with a loved one on the open water. Remember safety comes first, so be sure to always wear a life jacket and check your local weather conditions before heading out. 

Frisbee Golf: Combining fun and fitness 

Frisbee golf, also known as disc golf, is an engaging, low-impact fitness activity to enjoy outdoors. It’s played like traditional golf, except instead of using clubs and golf balls, players use specialized frisbees or discs to complete each hole on a course. Like pickleball, it requires hand-eye coordination and provides a fun aerobic workout.  

Frisbee golf can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. Offering a naturally casual and relaxing environment, it’s a popular recreational activity for friends, families, and even organized leagues and tournaments. The sport provides an opportunity to engage in friendly competition, social interaction, and a fun outdoor fitness activity. 

Another great quality of frisbee golf is that most courses are free or low-cost, making it an inexpensive form of mental and physical exercise.  

Hiking/Nature Walks: Unwind and reset with the great outdoors 

Like kayaking, hiking through the mountains or a simple walk through a grassy park offers an opportunity to reset and breathe in the fresh air. Exploring new trails, incredible views, and animated wildlife can promote mental relaxation and physical well-being. Hiking and walking are a great form of aerobic exercise and promote leg muscle strength.  

Tips for safe hiking include: 

  • Wear appropriate attire like hiking boots 
  • Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated 
  • Carry protection such as bear spray 
  • Hike with a buddy 
  • Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back 
  • Be aware of and respect the wildlife  

Tai Chi: Find balance and inner peace 

Tai Chi, or Tai Chi Chuan, is a traditional Chinese martial art that has evolved into a popular form of exercise and meditation. Combining slow, flowing movements with deep breathing and mental focus, it helps promote physical and mental health.   

The slow, controlled movements of Tai Chi require a mind-body connection. This practice can help with balance, flexibility, and strength while promoting mental clarity.  

Tai Chi is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. It can be practiced individually or in groups, both indoors and outdoors. Whether you’re seeking improved physical fitness, stress reduction, or a mindful practice, Tai Chi offers a holistic approach to well-being.  

Takeaway

Engaging in outdoor fitness activities is a great way to help keep your mind and body in shape. It’s important to remember to take all safety precautions, including a proper warm up and post-exercise recovery. Pre-workout stretching, replenishing electrolytes, and even supplements like Puritan’s Pride Senior Bone & Joint with UC-II that support bone health and joint comfort can help keep you moving throughout every season.*