A Detailed Guide on Outdoor Activities for a Fun and Fit Lifestyle
Are you tired of the same old gym routine and craving a breath of fresh air in your workouts? Are you fed up with crowded, sweaty, smelly gym environments full of old, tatty workout equipment that users end up queuing half their session for, which most gym-goers don’t even know how to use properly anyway..?
Workout technology has revolutionised the fitness industry and there are now machines for every exercise imaginable, a lot of which are extremely useful and offer users a variety of options to develop strength, improve cardiovascular function, and enhance overall health and fitness. But, making those physical advancements doesn’t just have to take place within the confines of a cramped gymnasium. Plus, there are actually far better exercise alternatives to a lot of the dangerous and restricted machinery that occupy the largest spaces in our workout rooms.
Think of activities under the sun and look nowhere other than the great outdoors for a promise of exhilarating activity that will not only improve your health and fitness, but inject a hearty dose of fun and adventure into your lifestyle.
Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to get fit and have fun, outdoors.
Exercising Outdoors & The Benefits of Nature
Before we get into exercising outdoors and the benefits of working out in nature, let’s talk about exercise on the whole for a moment and how social conditioning is forcing modern humans to participate in some form of exercise in an attempt to keep up with the levels of body standardisation in order to make one’s oneself more appealing to the crowd.
We’ll bring this to attention now, and it’s no secret; we exercise for two reasons.
- To be fit and healthy
- To be attractive and desirable
Ideally, you’d have these prioritised in the order in which they have been listed, and you’d be adopting a routine that facilitates the attainment of both of these goals. For the most part, aiming for one, or the other, means you’ll benefit from both, and although this blog isn’t aimed towards those looking to win Mr and Miss World titles, it is aimed at those who are looking to get fit, have fun, and look good doing it. Outside, when and where possible.
Exercising in general is more popular now than ever before thanks to the internet and how influencers are able to share their fitness journey and their incredible physiques with the world. In the past, the routines required to sculpt these aesthetics were difficult to come by and to access such material you would need to be in touch with industry professionals, educate yourself with books and videos, and then you’d need the motivation to implement these practices for a consistent period of time, enough to start seeing some results.
Now, you still have to educate yourself, you still have to read and watch instructional materials to grasp exercise concepts, and you’ll still need to perform these movements repetitively, correctly, to perfect the techniques, prevent injury, and make gains. But, to be presented with these informations, all you’ve got to do is open up any social media platform and you’ll be bombarded with countless ‘influencers’ who have already made some of the developments that you’re looking to make, and who have already chiselled those perfect abs that you’re looking to display.
Now, to mislead is not the intention here. But, to make a lot of the developments and exhibit the sorts of physical attributes that these influencers are displaying, one must understand that some serious commitment and dedication must be upheld, and a lot of that must be focused towards improving cardiovascular function and strengthening the body through exercises that target muscular hypertrophy. The most popular exercises to do this are typically performed in the gym and include specific cardio exercises and resistance training techniques using either dedicated gym machinery and/or free weight exercise variations.
However, it’s important to understand that the exercise variations commonly used in a gym environment for improving cardiovascular health and for the development of the body’s muscular system are based on natural movement patterns, all of which are mimicked, and sometimes badly when using these isolated machines. That’s not to discredit, or diminish the value and practicality of some of these machine options. They can actually prove extremely beneficial, particularly in cases of extreme strength training and muscle building, and in the case of rehabilitation and therapy, which requires a certain level of control, or assistance when reconditioning after injury or trauma. That of which can be provided by the use of specific machines and/or accessories for regaining strength and movement in affected body parts.
Where were we? Right, yes, finding a more natural and earthly solution for getting fit and having fun, outside..
Firstly, outdoor activities give everybody, regardless of their abilities an opportunity to be physically active and try their hand at something of interest, and perhaps something they’d enjoy and even be quite good at. They doesn’t take place in a busy gym environment full of buffs and booty’s, which under most circumstances would make somebody new to the game feel inferior and self conscious, and these outdoor pursuits can be done at almost any time of the day, mostly free of charge.
Whether it be hiking, cycling, jogging, or playing sports, activities like these involve a level of cardiovascular endurance that doesn’t tend to be on the list of priorities for most people when they join a gym. Most newbies are inclined to jump straight into weight training and skip the all important cardio exercises required to build up the stamina and conditioning needed for intense workouts.
Given that outdoor activities tend to be varied, they contribute to all-around physical fitness, since the muscles used in varying groups complement balance and coordination, strength and endurance, and flexibility and function, among other factors. Outdoor activities, or all activities for that matter, but more so outdoor activities because of the engagement with nature, increase oxygen concentration, and they are mostly made up of compound movements, which are movements that require multi-joint operation. All contributing to the release of high levels of hormones for relieving stress, improving mood, and enhancing your sense of well-being.
Exercising outside exposes people to natural light, which if diet or supplementation isn’t adequate in providing is the only way to raise vitamin D, essential for strong bones and a robust immune system. Outdoor exercise also aids in circadian rhythm regulation by synchronising the body with the sun's natural cycle, particularly if done in the morning upon waking.
Additionally, outdoor activities normally encourage community and social cohesion, which contributes to the building of relationships and in turn, a stronger sense of belonging, purpose, and emotional stability.
Incorporating some outdoor exercise into your lifestyle is going to have profound physical and psychological health benefits. Let us take a look at some of the best outdoor activities for having fun, keeping fit, and staying healthy.
Best Outdoor Activities for Keeping Fit & Having Fun
Some of the best outdoor activities for keeping fit and healthy are going to involve routines which see one cover ground and distance. You could always exercise in a circle and chase your own tail, but that’s not going to be as engaging and adventurous as, say, going on a hike or a bike ride. That’s because we as humans are better fulfilled when we navigate and explore. That said, we can’t look to trek around the globe every time we wish to do some exercise, it’s just not practical.
Below are some ideas for outdoor activities that are going to get you out of your comfort zone, out of breath, the blood pumping, and feeling energised, focused, and alert.
Hiking and Trail Running
Hiking is a great way to get on your feet and experience the outdoors just how nature had intended. Start off with some steady strolls up and down streets and through the park so you can build up a level of endurance and familiarity with outdoor spaces. It wouldn’t be advisable for someone who’s only ever experience with the outdoor terrains would be from the house to the bus stop, and to the bus stop to the office, to then go mountain climbing across such diverse landscapes which pose many risks if one hasn’t been primed under such conditions.
Once you’ve got a few miles of walking through different settings and across different terrains under the belt, you can then perhaps look towards more challenging environments, such as forested paths, mountainous landscapes, or even coastal trails, among others. These offer beautiful scenery and the chance to experience wildlife while getting in those recommended daily steps.
A famous hiking and trail expedition in the UK, and a popular choice for walkers and mountaineers looking for a challenging outdoor adventure is the three-peaks: https://www.threepeakschallenge.uk/. This involves trekking across three of the tallest mountains on the British mainland:
Ben Nevis in Scotland (1345m)
Snowdon in Wales (1085m)
Scafell Pike in England (978m)
Please note: Before embarking on outdoor adventures like the three-peaks, mentioned above, make sure to buy a proper pair of footwear and some appropriate clothes, pack suitable safety gear and medical aids, be sure to take adequate food and water supplies, and read about trail etiquette to minimise risk and ensure a safe hiking experience.
Cycling Adventures
Cycling is a great way to exercise outdoors and not only offers an experience amongst the wondrous elements of nature, but provides varied intensities of cardiovascular and lower body engagement depending on resistance and terrain.
To derive the best experience from your biking adventure, first, find a suitable route that is going to allow you to challenge yourself while at the same time staying safe. Learn a few basics about bike maintenance, such as how to repair punctures and change tires, and learn about adjusting gears properly and how to keep them in good condition. You can also join different cycling groups or participate in charity rides. For a more adventurous experience, you could combine camping and cycling by bikepacking. This provides you with a chance to cover greater distances and explore new sceneries while camping out and enjoying the night life with nature.
Red Bull have put together 10 of the most beautiful cycle routes in the UK for riders of all abilities looking for a fun and adventurous cycling experience. Check out the website for more information: https://www.redbull.com/gb-en/most-beautiful-cycling-routes-uk
Rock Climbing and Bouldering
Rock climbing, as well as bouldering, is considered an extreme sport and very dangerous. We’ve placed it high up on our list because if you have the physicality and mental courage to attempt such daring feats, then you're going to want to give it a try.
With this in mind, start by taking a basic course and learn the proper techniques and all the safety precautions. Give yourself time to develop the strength and endurance and begin on the indoor climbing gyms before advancing to the more death defying outdoor climbs. Be knowledgeable and respectful of climbing ethics and environmental considerations, these are what are going to keep you safe and prevent you from falling and causing significant injury.
There are many indoor climbing arenas with qualified instructors ready to take you from the climbing walls of the practice room, through to the natural, high-altitude, rugged rock faces of the Swiss Alps.
Redpoint Climbing Centre in Birmingham is a great place to start if you’re local and offers a three-dimensional climbing experience that is going to help you develop the strength and endurance in preparation for taking those climbs to the great outdoors.
Visit the website for more information: https://www.redpointbirmingham.co.uk/
Important: Climbing is a very dangerous activity and demands a level of physicality that must be developed and respected. Never go out on a climb without due experience, being unequipped, and never go out on your own.
Water Sports for a Refreshing Workout
Experience water-based workouts such as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, surfing, swimming, or whitewater rafting for exciting and exhilarating exercise, very different from the standard gym or workout routine, but all of which are going to throw you in the deep end, so to speak, and force you to take on new challenges while pushing your physical and mental limits.
These activities not only build strength, endurance, and balance, but also test your adaptability and resilience as you navigate unpredictable conditions. Engaging with nature in these ways enhances your connection to the environment, offering a refreshing sense of adventure while improving overall fitness and mental well-being. Remember, it is advised to have a strong swimming ability before taking to the water. Always wear a life jacket, and never go out on the water without informing friends or family.
For a full list of water sports and aqua activities near you, check out: https://www.intotheblue.co.uk/water-sports/.
Outdoor Yoga and Meditation
Yoga is an ancient mental, physical, and spiritual practice that has its origins in northern India, with its first recorded practices being over 5000 years ago and used to unite mind, body, and spirit through the control of breath and movement. Fast forward to today, Yoga is more popular than ever and is practised worldwide in gyms, fitness centres, dedicated Yoga studios, and even at home by people of all ages and abilities.
The thing with Yoga, is that it focuses on mind-body connection and helps to restore balance and improve strength throughout the entire kinetic chain. The older generations will know this better than anyone, as we age, we lose the ability to control the body and this is largely down to postural adaptations which are a consequence of years of asymmetrical musculoskeletal function. Basically, we develop strengths and weaknesses in muscles and joints because of repetitive, favoured use of certain body parts when performing certain activities and movements. This results in back pain, hip pain, knee pain, circulation issues, arthritis, and even disease.
Take a look at some dedicated Yoga and Pilates equipment and accessories in the Shopifit store.
Research suggests that participating in Yoga practice just a couple of times per week has tremendous therapeutic benefits and increases quality of life significantly. Regular Yoga practice promotes strength, flexibility, endurance, self-awareness, and greater levels of self-control. Accompany these benefits with the advantages of exercising outdoors and you have a recipe for health, fitness, and longevity that is difficult to match anywhere else.
Check out Yoga for Beginners: A Beginners Guide to Strong and Healthy Living .
Team Sports and Group Activities
Join team sports where teamwork and camaraderie promote an exhilarating and competitive environment between friends and foes that can help boost levels of fitness and improve morale. Take part in group activities like outdoor fitness boot camps and various sporting activities and engage with people to complete exercise targets either as part of a team or individually. This can help make routines more dynamic and fun, and therefore, make them more likely to be sustained.
Take a look at Adventure Britain: https://www.adventurebritain.com/ - for some great outdoor activities and adventures in South Wales. And Acclimbatize: https://www.acclimbatize.co.uk/ - for activities and adventures in the Peak District.
Adventure Races and Obstacle Courses
Adventure races and obstacle courses enhance your capability of overcoming obstacles in a more systematic manner and demand immense physical and mental toughness and endurance. Joining an adventure racing community and participating in events like Tough Mudder and Go Ape are a real test of character and require resilience and discipline to get through some of the most challenging conditions.
For a full list of obstacle events in 2024-2025, visit: https://www.letsdothis.com/gb/obstacle-course-events
Fitness & Fun: Hand in Hand with Nature
Scientists have discovered that exercising outdoors, particularly in open green spaces shows greater improvements in physical and mental health when compared to indoor activities. It seems that the connectedness with nature can significantly improve even the motivation to take up and sustain physical activity, eliciting certain health benefits that can not be derived from indoor variations of even the same exercises. Not only does one benefit from the circulatory effects of exercise and the increased oxygen to the body’s muscles, organs, and brain, but being at one with nature and reverting back to our ancestral roots is shown to alleviate stress and improve mood so significantly, that once one has experienced the effects of exercise, and done so in ways through participation in exercise outdoors, it’d be difficult to replicate these effects when performing any exercise in any indoor environment.
Although these outdoor activities are not likely to sculpt the perfect beach bod that a lot of people are now aspiring to, they do offer fun and challenging ways to experience the great outdoors and make great improvements towards developing fitness and health while immersing yourself in mother nature.
Thеrе arе many activity and adventure options for people of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re into rock climbing, hiking, swimming, or team sports, regular exercise is going to have profound benefits on health and well-being, and all it takes are a few short sessions per week to really start feeling and seeing the advantages of including regular exercise into your lifestyle.
Choosing the right activities and the right places to perform them is what is going to be key here, and diversifying your routine to include a mixture of indoor and outdoor exercise, varying in intensity, utilising a range of compound and isolation movements to ensure that sufficient cardiovascular and musculoskeletal activity is undertaken, is going to stimulate and strengthen your physiological capacities and not only improve your overall health and well-being, but enhance your life circumstances and equip you with the tools for contending with the harsh realities of life, and how best to live for a healthy and fulfilling existence.
For more healthy living tips, tricks, advice, and techniques for improving health and well-being, head over to Shopifit.
