7 of the Best Outdoor Sports for Losing Weight

When trying to lose weight, the gym works for some, but you have many other options. In fact, some of the most effective and enjoyable ways to work out can happen under the open sky. Calorie-burning outdoor sports keep things fresh and exciting, so you’re more likely to stick with them. There are sports for solo challenges or as part of a group, whichever you think can work best for you. Take your fitness journey outdoors with seven of the best outdoor sports for losing weight.

1. Running, Hiking, and Walking

Sometimes, the simplest activities are the most effective. Running, hiking, and walking all burn major calories while you enjoy the great outdoors. Running is for those who love a high-intensity workout, while hiking adds an element of adventure with uneven terrain and elevation. Don’t worry if all you can manage is a walk; that works too. What matters most is that you take action and stay consistent.

The beauty of these activities is their accessibility. You don’t need fancy equipment, just a good pair of shoes and a route to explore. They’re easy to fit into a busy schedule. It can be a quick jog before work or an early Saturday morning hike with friends. Make the activities more challenging by adding intervals into your run or carrying a weighted backpack during your hike, which boosts calorie burn and builds strength.

2. Cycling and Mountain Biking

For a sport that combines cardio with a serious leg workout, cycling and mountain biking are hard to beat. Cycling on flat roads is great for building endurance, while mountain biking cranks up the intensity with challenging trails and steep climbs. Both activities burn calories and build lower-body strength.

Cycling, if you compare it to running, is easy on the leg joints, making it a great option for those who want a high-calorie burn without the impact. You can cruise through your neighborhood or tackle rugged trails, offering a mix of fun and fitness. You can even make it a social activity by joining a local cycling group or planning a weekend ride with friends.

3. Water-Based Activities

For a full-body workout that’s easy on all your joints, water-based sports like swimming, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are excellent choices. Swimming burns calories by engaging nearly every muscle in your body. Surfing and SUP blend balance and core strength with cardio for a workout that engages your muscles with the feel of a leisurely activity.

These activities are perfect for hot days when you want to cool off while staying active. They’re a great way to break out of a fitness rut and try something new. If you’re near a lake or ocean, consider making water sports a regular part of your routine. You’ll burn calories and enjoy the mental health benefits of being near water.

4. Team Sports

If you thrive on camaraderie and competition, team sports, such as soccer, basketball, and ultimate frisbee, are one of the best ways to lose weight. These sports keep you moving with bursts of high-intensity activity.

Team sports keep you motivated because you’re too busy focusing on the game and connecting with others to notice how hard you’re working. It’s fitness disguised as fun. The social aspect helps you stay consistent, as you’ll be less likely to skip a game when your teammates are counting on you.

5. Adventure Sports

For those who crave a challenge, adventure sports like rock climbing and bouldering offer a unique way to lose weight. Rock climbing is a full-body workout that builds strength and burns calories, while bouldering focuses on short, intense routes that require power, problem-solving, and agility.

These activities are for anyone who wants to push their limits and enjoy the adrenaline rush that comes with conquering a tough climb or a complex bouldering problem. Many people enjoy adventure sports since they don’t feel like workouts, but more like experiences. And with the right gear, like a durable backpack to carry snacks, water, and emergency kits, you can take on these adventures with confidence.

6. Snow Sports

When the temperature drops, snow sports like skiing and snowboarding are incredible ways to stay active and burn calories. Downhill skiing and snowboarding engage your legs and core, while cross-country skiing offers a full-body cardio workout.

If you’re new to snow sports, consider taking a lesson to build your skills and confidence before heading out on your first attempt. Once you get the hang of it, you might find that you love it.

7. High-Intensity Workouts

If you’re short on time but want maximum results, high-intensity outdoor activities, like jump rope, parkour, and bootcamp sessions, are the way to go. These activities combine cardio and strength training, making them incredibly efficient for shedding pounds.

You can do high-intensity workouts almost anywhere. Start in your backyard, head to a park, or find an open field. They’re quick, effective, and perfect for anyone with a packed schedule. For an extra challenge, try incorporating resistance bands or weighted vests into your routine.

Bonus: Weight Loss Meal Planning for Outdoor Adventures

When it comes to losing weight and staying active, meal planning is just as important as the workouts themselves. Fuel up with the right meals and snacks to maintain energy and strength when performing outdoor sports. The easiest way to accomplish this is with meal management bags. These fitness meal prep bags keep your food organized, fresh, and ready to fuel your adventures.

Any activities, such as a long hike, a day of cycling, or a snowboarding trip, require you to pack balanced meals and snacks for energy and to avoid unhealthy food choices. With compartments for meal prep containers, water bottles, and even supplements, tactical meal prep gear is for anyone serious about their fitness goals. They’re convenient and necessary for most people to stay on track.

Gear Up and Get Moving

No matter which of the best outdoor sports for losing weight you choose, find something you enjoy so you’ll stick with it. And when you’re heading out for your next adventure, pack a bag with snacks and water for the energy you’ll need. WOLFpak’s tactical backpacks keep up with the active lifestyle of athletes and fitness enthusiasts, whether you’re hitting the trails, the court, or the water. With compartments for everything from gear to meal prep, they’re the perfect companion for your fitness journey.

Check out WOLFpak’s collection of meal prep gear and be ready for your next outdoor adventure. Your goals are waiting—go chase them!