The Best Outdoor Workouts

With the lingering COVID-19 pandemic still lingering in our life, outdoor workouts are more popular than ever. While indoor workouts may still be facing some restrictions, outdoor workouts are an excellent opportunity to connect with nature and get a sweat on simultaneously. This, combined with the height of the summer heat, has given us the motivation to get outside and sculpt our dream summer body in an outdoor workout. Here are some of our favorite outdoor workouts.

The best outdoor workouts to lose weight and build muscle

1. Hiking

From a peaceful stroll in a nearby trail or an extensive workout in the form of a jog, hiking is beneficial for your mind and body. Studies have shown that hiking reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, and the resistance of the incline helps you build muscle while burning fat at a steady, prolonged pace. Other studies conducted on the mental health benefits of hiking indicate that it’s correlated with a boost in creativity levels and lower cortisol levels.

Yosemite, California, remains a popular hiking destination and is quite famous for its Half Dome Cable Hike - where you can combine two iconic hikes by taking the Mist Trail to see Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls before hitting Yosemite's most iconic rock face -- with stepper trails.

For more information related to hiking, read this article we wrote covering the 6 best hikes in California.

2. Kayaking

Best for individuals who enjoy their time in the water; kayaking is an excellent option for upper body workouts. It is known to strengthen the arms, back, shoulders, and chest and has also been proven to lower stress levels.

3. Swimming

Swimming is one of the best full-body workouts that is also amusing and engaging. If you are one of the many who cannot stand the scorching heat of the sun, this outdoor workout is for you. With swimming, you will be able to transform your physique by burning fat to replace it with muscle. Swimming has been proven to increase flexibility, overall wellbeing and fitness, and muscular strength. 

4. Surfing

Depending on where you live, surfing is a great way to get fit while enjoying being outside. Surfing is known to increase core strength and balance; research has also linked surfing with increased cardiovascular fitness levels.

Huntington Beach is a classic beach in California where many beginners travel to, to try their hand at surfing. Give it a try!

5. Wakeboarding

Wakeboarding is another popular outdoor workout to beat that summer heat. Much like surfing, wakeboarding is also an extensive full-body workout and hence, an excellent opportunity to tone your entire body. It helps strengthen the core and reinforces the ability to balance. The bicep and triceps muscles are also exercised extensively and thus increase the overall arm strength and endurance. 

6. Cycling

Cycling is a great lower body workout and involves your quads, hamstrings, and calves. It is also a substantial substitute for the cardio workout in the gym. It is a low-impact exercise and is thus beneficial for the joints as well and is also known to promote feelings of a good mood and general mental wellbeing – thanks to the release of dopamine and serotonin.

7. Walking

If you’re new to exercise, going to the gym or an exercise class may seem intimidating. Starting off with a walk around the block might be sufficient to get your blood pumping and help you get in the swing of things. Start by going for a walk every day, and enjoy your quickly advancing fitness levels! This is one of the most effective ways to start your fitness journey.

The best outdoor workout gear you need

WOLFpak has a wide range of durable products designed to support your outdoor workouts:

• The 32oz Flask made of stainless steel for durability is for $25.95 -- comes in 9 striking colors
• The black drawstring backpack is the perfect grab-and-go bag to carry lightweight belongings such as a snack and is available online for $6.95.
• The fanny pack is available for just $34.95 and comes in a range of different colors.
• Flat bill hat for $32.95 (available in black and white)
• Women's flowy muscle tank for $17.95 (available in black and red)

 Final thoughts

While it is crucial to work out and engage in activities that boost your mental and physical health, outdoor workouts, unlike indoor workouts, provide you with an opportunity to spend time outside, topping up your vitamin D levels while you get your sweat on.