Summer is, by all means, the ideal time to explore the great outdoors. Why spend your time confined to a gym when you can practice a popular sport or exercise outdoors? After all, you have plenty of reasons to do so, the sun is shining, and the temperature is just fine.

So, how can you make the most of summer before these jolly days pass? If you would like a few clues, we rounded up a few simple activities that you can do outdoors this summer. 

Hiking
Hiking is a great alternative to walking; you don’t have to feel intimidated to head away from civilization. In the wake of the pandemic, hiking has become increasingly popular. According to research by the Outdoor Foundation, the number of Americans hitting the trails has surged from 48 million to 59 million. If you are questioning the benefits of hiking, here are a few reasons to give you more impetus to get out there and hike. According to the Mayo Clinic, hiking generally burns more calories than walking, and the uneven terrain has a profound impact on the body, strengthening the legs and core muscles, which, in turn, boost balance and stability.

Trail Running

Jogging on the pavement can lose its luster; after all, it can make you feel the heat more than hitting the trails. Trail running provides a smart alternative. Research shows that spending time in nature can have a profound effect on the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety. One of the most unique things about trail running is that it forces you to adjust your stride to handle changing terrain, which, in turn, makes you use different muscles. Even if you live in the city, you might be surprised by how many trail options you have nearby.

Gravel Biking
Gravel biking might not be a popular sport, yet it is, by all means, a great way to explore nature. Generally, gravel bikes have lightweight compact frame shapes like road bikes, but they are built for speed like mountain bikes, allowing you to climb steeper hills without overworking yourself. There are several benefits to gravel biking, one of which is that it can boost your cardiovascular system, increasing your heart rate and oxygen consumption, allowing you to burn more calories.

Lap Swimming

Who doesn’t enjoy a good swim in summer? Swimming is a great way to exercise and cool off from summer’s exhaustive heat. Unlike other forms of exercise, swimming provides a total-body workout; it engages every muscle and joint in your body, taxing your arms, legs, and cardiovascular system. Research confirms that swimming can lower blood pressure and improve arterial health in older adults. It also offers similar cardiovascular benefits to other endurance sports, such as running.

Tai Chi
Known as a gentler form of exercise, Tai Chi has made its mark not only in city parks across China but also in many other popular parts of the world, including the US and Canada. Tai chi is a great way to step out of the indoors and explore nature. It has several benefits, including a profound effect on your mental health. It is considered a workout for the brain and body because it blends mental focus with physical effort to build strength. Research also suggests that Tai Chi improves balance and stability in people with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.

Kayaking
Kayaking still remains one of the all-time favourite ways to enjoy the outdoors in summer. Even if you don’t live near a coastline or a river, there is a good chance you can have some fun opportunities to paddle in a nearby lake; after all, North America and Canada are known for their bountiful lakes. Kayaking is special because it is one of the few exercises that only work the upper body. Kayaking is considered a good exercise for people who want to ease into fitness or are just starting to work out.

So, there you have it, six forms of exercise that allow you to explore Mother Nature and all its glory. Exercising outdoors in the summer is not only good for your mental health but also allows you to get much-needed vitamin D from the sun and provides a cost-effective alternative to pricey gym memberships.

David Messiha | Staff Writer