Work Out Outdoors!
Sometimes, indoor or gym workouts can get tedious and boring. You’d just want to go out and get some fresh air. There are several workouts you can do outside for that much needed break from gym ennui.
Outdoor Cardio Workouts
Jogging and running are of course the most popular and easy to do outdoor cardio workout. You can do this wherever you are, as long as there is a road. The great thing about running outdoors is the variety you get. You’ve got inclines and declines, as well as a slew of obstacles that practice your agility. Add to this, you get to workout in a changing backdrop, even though it is just in your neighborhood park or streets. You are visually stimulated and this makes it hard to get burned out from running outdoors.
When you go for a run, make sure to wear shoes with good traction and cushioning. The impact is heavier on the feet when you run on the road rather than on a treadmill. Good traction keeps you from losing your footing should you encounter slippery roads.
Pace yourself when you run. Start easy and then slowly build up speed. In the middle part of your run, try to keep your heart rate at 85% of your maximum heart rate. Keep to this for at least ten minutes. Always end your run with a cool down for five to ten minutes. Never abruptly stop, especially if you ran at 85% of your maximum heart rate.
The Legs Have It!
There are so many leg exercises you can do while outdoors. These are vital exercises even if you have already gone for a run. Running is mainly cardio and does not focus on the strength and agility of the legs.
The Side Leap focuses on the inner thighs, quads, calves, and glutes. To do this, you just need to leap from side to side as far as you can. Remember to always bend your knees as you leap and land on the balls of your feet.
The Step Up exercise focuses on your glutes, hamstrings and quads. Use a step or flat sturdy rock as your platform. Step up using your right foot. Bring your left knee up to waist level as you do so. Repeat on the other side.
Chest and Triceps
A park bench can go a long way in your outdoor workout. You can do modified pushups, using the bench as your support. Make sure your hands are wide apart and then go down up to where your arms are at ninety degrees. Repeat fifteen times for three sets.
Sources:
Fitness Magazine