There are many ways to stay fit in summer. Outdoor workouts are a change from the regular gym setting that can become a bit boring over time. Summer is the perfect time to freshen up your workout routine by taking it outside and adding more outdoor activities like outdoor yoga, hiking, rock climbing and more. Grab a friend, your workout equipment, some sunscreen, and head outside to try the outdoor workouts we’ve listed below.
- Walking
- Cycling
- Hiking
- Running
- Outdoor yoga
- Swimming
- Play a sport
1. Walking
Walking is one of the most underrated ways to exercise. It’s good for your cardiovascular health because it increases your heart rate, while also working your muscles, particularly your legs and core. All you need is a comfy pair of running or walking shoes, and perhaps your headphones to play your favourite music while getting those steps in. If you live in Gauteng, you could head to Groenkloof or Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve, for a nice walk in nature in the middle of the city. If you live in Cape Town, you could enjoy a scenic walk with your dog somewhere like the Newlands Forest Short Circuit.
2. Cycling
Riding a bike is a great way to enjoy the warm summer weather and get much-needed hours of sunshine in the mornings or evenings. You can also explore local roads and trails either on your own or with a group of friends. You could even change your regular commute to work by choosing to hit the pedals instead.
There are different types of bikes that you can consider getting, depending on your preferred riding. Road bikes are light in weight and have narrower tires; they also have dropped handles made for fast movement over the pavement. Mountain bikes are made with heavier frames, wider tires and shock-absorbing features. This is to help you manoeuvre on rocky or uneven terrain. Then there are hybrid bikes that combine the smooth road bike tires with the stronger frame of a mountain bike for a middle ground that performs well on both pavement and off-road trails. There are also biking opportunities available at both the Groenkloof and Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserves
3. Hiking
Spending time with mother nature during summer is another excellent way to work out. All you need is appropriate footwear and weather-appropriate clothing. You’ll need a pair of special hiking shoes for longer hikes. They are more flexible than a regular boot and come up to just below the ankle bone. These sorts of shoes are best suited for hiking on flat terrain or well-travelled trails.
In Gauteng, you may want to check out these 5 beautiful hiking trails in Johannesburg. If you live in Pretoria, you can hike at the Faerie Glen Nature Reserve or the Moreleta Kloof Hiking Trail. In Cape Town, you could hike Lion’s Head, Devils Peak or Table Mountain for the most amazing views.
If you’re looking for hiking essentials, check out this list of 10 things to bring on every hike.
4. Running
Even if you’re not a born runner, it can still be a nice activity to do to get some exercise. You can start by alternating between running and walking, then work your way up to jogging for longer periods. Just make sure you have a good pair of running shoes.
5. Outdoor Yoga
Take your yoga practice to a new level outside. Your view from your downward dog is more exciting outside, especially if you have an ocean or mountain range behind you. Also, yoga practice will complement lifting weights by promoting muscle flexibility, and increasing your range of motion, while working on your core strength and improving your posture.
6. Swimming
If you’re lucky enough to have a swimming pool in your backyard, take full advantage of it during summer. Throughout summer, you’ll be able to spend more time in the pool swimming laps and not having to worry too much about cold weather creeping in. Swimming also takes the pressure off your joints and allows you to work the muscles that aren’t commonly reached while on land.
7. Play A Sport
If you’re in doubt, try out a new sport. Whether it’s tennis, basketball, going for a surf, or playing volleyball, any sport that can be played outdoors will do you well. Not only will you get a super fun workout in, but you’ll also get to take in all the fresh air and learn something new.
Conclusion
Regardless of what you choose, the most important thing is to get outdoors and start moving. If you are having trouble getting started, it’s best to start small and work your way up. Before you know it, you will look different and feel like a brand new person. Involving friends and family can also be a nice way to commit to your exercise routine and make it more fun for you. You’ll find that after having worked out, you will feel de-stressed and proud of yourself for completing your exercise.
Share these outdoor workout ideas with your friends and family that are looking to try something new, and don’t forget to book an expert cleaning service with SweepSouth so that you don’t have to arrive back home, tired from your workout, still having to clean.
