When considering ways to get fitter, many people’s minds immediately go to signing up at their local gym, but the truth is that this isn’t the only way to reach your goal. Whether you don’t enjoy the gym environment or just prefer the great outdoors instead, there are plenty of outdoor sports perfect for beginners which you can try out. As they say, “don’t knock it until you’ve tried it”!
Walking, Jogging, or Running
The idea of running even just a few metres may send any beginner athlete into a flat panic, so running should be the goal not the start. Walking is fantastic exercise and the best part is that it’s free! Start by walking at a steady and moderate pace for 30 minutes daily and as your fitness levels improve start including short bursts of jogging. Once you can jog comfortably for more than half of time, start running in short bursts.
Cycling
You may not like the idea of having to purchase an expensive bicycle, but the good news is that owing to the growing popularity of this sport, there are a good number of companies who hire bicycles for use by the hour. Take to hiring a bicycle for use on the weekends and once you’ve decided on whether the sport is for you, take a look at what’s on offer in your budget.
Fishing
Perfect for people of all fitness levels, fishing is a fantastic way to spend more time in the great outdoors and you can enjoy gaming club casino Canada while you wait for a bite! Depending on what you plan on catching, you won’t need a very expensive fishing rod and due in part to the ‘waiting game’ that fishing sometimes is, you’ll have plenty of time to think and you’ll likely feel incredibly relaxed after a day on the shore.
Hiking
Hiking can be very challenging, but you shouldn’t let this deter you if you enjoy it. If you’re just getting started and aren’t quite the picture of fitness, we suggest starting with easy trails and working your way up to more advanced hikes. A trail can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, so check what’s available in your area.
Golf
While many may think that golf is reserved for middle-aged men on Saturday mornings, the truth is that golf is fantastic exercise – provided you don’t use the golf cart! Not only will you have to walk a far bit on a standard 18-hole course, you’ll also be lugging your laden golf bag with you which will improve your strength as well.
Swimming
If you’re hoping to enjoy swimming outdoors, this type of exercise will be largely dependent on the season and the availability of water sources. However, as strong as your desire to get exercise by swimming outdoors may be, we suggest that beginners start in an indoor pool until your endurance and strength increases. After that, you can enjoy the open water to your heart’s content.