Best and Most Enjoyable Ways to Get Fit Outdoors

Summer is finally here, and with it comes the opportunity to get off of the treadmill or stationary bike and into the great outdoors.  The world is your playground, and the variety of fun and beneficial workouts is practically endless.  So if you’re ready to head out, these tips and equipment from Buydig.com will help you make the most of your outdoor workouts this summer.

Walking
One of the easiest and least expensive ways to get fit, walking is the perfect way to trim your waistline and improve your health. Walking briskly, about 4mph, for 30 minutes 5 days a week will help maintain a healthy weight, prevent or manage heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, strengthen your bones and muscles, improve your mood, and improve your balance and coordination.  If you’re trying to lose weight, try walking at that pace for 60 minutes a day.   The only equipment needed for this activity is a good pair of athletic shoes with the proper arch support, and comfortable clothes appropriate for the weather.

Garmin Vivofit Bluetooth Fitness Band from Buydig.com

Jogging/Running
Jogging burns more calories than walking.  For example, a 150-pound woman can burn 306 calories running for 30 minutes at 5 mph.  That’s equivalent to a 12-minute mile. Running is great for your heart and lungs, but it does put more stress on your knees, ankles and hips.  If you are a beginner, it is important to start slowly and increase your time or distance by 10% each week.  The only gear you really need for this activity is a good pair of running shoes with good support, and for women, a quality sports bra.

Cycling
Millions of people have already found out that bicycling is an excellent cardiovascular exercise.  But did you know it’s even more than that?  Cycling is also a fantastic opportunity for you to explore your community, and a great form of transportation.  More and more people use their bikes to commute to work every year.  Cycling uses different muscles than walking and jogging, such as the quadriceps, and it does require a few more pieces of equipment to ride safely.  You will need a properly fitted bike, a helmet and gloves with a little palm padding. You can find several accessories such as headlights, taillights, bike computers with GPS and heart rate tracking, U-locks and trunk bike racks at Buydig.com.

Planet Bike Beamer 3 LED Bicycle Light with Quick Cam Bracket Mount from Buydig.com

Swimming
This activity works to tone your arms and legs and is a great cardiovascular workout.  Swimming is perfect for people with joint problems because it is very easy on the joints.  It also increases stamina, relieves stress and helps to fight off high blood pressure and diabetes.  As long as you have access to a pool, lake, pond or ocean, the only other equipment you will need is a swimsuit and a pair of goggles.

Hiking
This is one activity that won’t feel like a workout at all!  You’ll get a tremendous leg and cardiovascular workout while listening to babbling brooks and singing birds alone or with family and friends.  A 150-pound woman can burn over 200 calories on a 30-minute hike. You’ll need a good pair of hiking boots, a backpack to carry water and supplies, and possibly a walking stick or hiking pole before you hit the trails.

Kayaking
Kayaking is a great cardiovascular workout that develops upper-body strength, endurance, flexibility, and balance.  It also focuses on the muscles of the center of your body, back and stomach.  Kayaking is a fun way to work out on the water, but you will need a few items to participate safely. You will need a kayak, a life vest or other form of personal floatation device, and throw ropes.

Taking your workout outdoors will revitalize you, increase your energy and give you a boost of Vitamin D which is essential to strong bones and a healthy immune system.  So slap on that sunscreen, lace up your athletic shoes and get outside today!