On the Beaten Path - 10 Tips For Getting Fit Outdoors
With the majority of us living urban lifestyles and managing busy schedules, 30 minutes on the treadmill with an iPod is now the standard for maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyle. While the gym is convenient, it focuses completely on exercise itself and the repetitive routine couldn't be more de-motivating for some of us. Some days, it's more like the dreadmill, right?
If you would like to put some excitement into your fitness regime, why not venture outdoors? We're not just talking about the municipal park here - we're talking about getting outside the city limits. Self-propelled outdoor wilderness activities such as hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing can be relatively inexpensive and enjoyable ways to supplement your gym routine. The fitness benefits include a cardio workout while improving your balance and strength. They also have the added bonus of improved well-being by escaping noise and air pollution, re-connecting with nature, and relieving stress.
The beauty of outdoor fitness is that the objective doesn't necessarily need to be a "workout". Often, it's the technical challenge, a mountaintop panorama, enjoying time with a small group of people, or exploring a new facet of nature, that motivates us to do it. It keeps our minds engaged, and the fitness part is a bonus! Just by going at your own pace, your level of fitness improves gradually as you take on more challenging adventures.
If you are interested in getting into outdoor activity, here are 10 tips to get you started:
- Start with hiking. Hiking is probably the least expensive outdoor activity you can do. Comfortable and sturdy footwear, a water bottle, a friend, and off you go.
- Target local trails. Hiking clubs typically publish a book of local trails - look for these publications in the local interest section of your bookstore, outdoor gear stores, or on the internet.
- Keep it simple. Hiking on rugged, hilly terrain is a lot more work then walking on the side walk, so aim for 2-3 kms to start.
- Find loop trails. Trails that take you in a circle will give you a better sense of accomplishment when you are just starting out.
- Enjoy the experience. It's as much about the tranquility as it is about getting exercise. Take time to observe your surroundings, take pictures, and even sit down and meditate in a particularly pretty spot.
- Make it a family activity. Interpretive nature trails can be very educational for you and the kids. Or, you can purchase binoculars and field guides for local plants and birds to learn and explore on your own.
- Stick to well established trails. Bring trail maps and directions with you if they are available. Only experienced wilderness navigators should go off trail.
- Join a local club. It's a great way to explore new, more challenging trails with people who have lots of experience.
- Hike while you are on vacation. Many cities and towns, both domestic and abroad, have large parks and trails nearby. Use the opportunity to learn about the local natural environment during your visit. If you are uncertain about where to go, look for an eco-tour company and sign up for a guided trip.
- Revisit your favorites. Do the same hike at different times of the year. This will increase variety if you have only a few hikes close by and give you an appreciation for the seasons.
Melanie is an experienced outdoor enthusiast living in northern British Columbia, Canada where she is a writer, professional researcher, educator and consultant. She enjoys hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing...and the occasional stint on the treadmill. She manages several blogs including http://relishforwomen.com a website to inspire women who relish life.
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/
Added: April 3, 2008
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