Breaking Free from Traditional Gyms: Why Outdoor Workouts Are Refreshing

Sometimes, our usual workout routines can feel monotonous, and the thought of going to a crowded gym can be less than motivating. However, the great outdoors offers a refreshing and versatile alternative to the confines of indoor exercises. Whether you’re seeking to mix up your routine or simply want to enjoy the fresh air, outdoor workouts provide an excellent way to stay active and challenged. Here, I’d like to share some of my favorite recommendations for taking your workouts outside, turning nature into your personal gym.

Utilize Your Body Weight for Effective Workouts

Instead of free weights, use body weight. For example, begin in a downward dog position (feet and hands flat on the ground, body forming a V with arms in line with the spine, and the top of the head facing the ground). Pushups can be done anywhere. Burpees are great for core, conditioning, and strength. You can also look into getting TRX Bands and utilizing them for suspension training. TRX bands can be taken anywhere; find a place to connect them, even a tree, for a workout anywhere.

Incorporate Shadow Boxing and Bob & Weave Drills

You can also do some shadow boxing, or you can just bob and weave. Find a tall railing or bar. Step under it with the nearest foot while ducking your head, keeping your eyes straight ahead, then throw a punch with the opposite hand while standing up on the other side of the bar. Repeat, reversing the direction of the bob and weave.

Speed-Skating for Agility and Core Strength

Another good workout to try is speed-skating. Find a playground with mulch. Moving on this unstable surface can boost your agility and core strength. Jump sideways to the right, throwing your arms to the right so the left elbow nearly touches the right knee, and the right arm extends behind the body. The left foot should almost trail (drag) in the mulch, and the right foot should plant firmly. Reverse the move, jumping left. Repeat the sequence quickly.

Conquer Hills Like a Legend

Famously, 49ers legend Jerry Rice is known for running the 1-mile mark of the Sylvan Trail in the Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve in San Mateo County, Calif. “The Hill” was part of his training routine. Don’t worry—you won’t have to go to California to train on a hill. Just find a hill that’s high enough. Sprint up and walk down for 10 sets. Do another 10 sets, going up the hill doing broad jumps (keeping feet together and jumping as far as possible) and walking back down.

Maximize Your Workout with Bleachers

Bleachers aren’t just for sitting. Using bleachers, you can challenge your entire body.

There are many different workouts that can be done on the bleachers, depending on what you’re trying to focus on. A bleacher workout can be aerobic or anaerobic; it can be done to build muscle or to slim down.

Here are some on my list:

• Push-ups—start with your feet on a bleacher height that is comfortable. Do 10 reps, keeping your your back is flat and core tight.
• Dips—start in a sitting position, palms down and facing towards your body on a bleacher. Lift your body, then bend your elbows back for 10-12 reps.

For Bleacher Sprints, sprint from the bottom to the top of the bleachers and back down. Try a total of 3 minutes to start there.

Embrace Creativity in Outdoor Workouts and Explore New Possibilities

When it comes to outdoor training, creativity is key. It’s all about finding what works best for you. Remember, just like this blog, there are numerous free resources online to help you discover new ways to achieve your health goals. The journey to fitness is about making consistent progress, so strive to become one percent better every day.

Embrace the outdoors as your gym, and let nature inspire your fitness journey. The possibilities are endless when you step outside, so take the leap and see where it leads you.

Author: Jose Luis Cadena Jr.