Ways to Stay Active Outdoors This Spring
The sun is shining, the birds are chirping and the flowers are blooming. Spring is just around the corner! That means brighter sunshine, warmer weather and more opportunities to comfortably enjoy the great outdoors while exercising. When you’ve been cooped up indoors all winter, you might be itching to head outside and get active. And this season provides so many opportunities to do just that. Are you wondering how to stay active in spring? Check out these creative methods of staying active in warmer weather — you might not even realize you’re exercising!
Go for a picnic
After a cozy winter inside the house, there’s almost nothing more energizing than basking in nature. Pack a basket with a healthy, bright meal — chicken pesto pita pockets, anyone? — and take a walk to a peaceful picnicking spot. Bring along a ball to toss to keep the afternoon active when you’re done munching.
Head out on a hike
Walking is one of the gentlest forms of exercise. Combine it with beautiful scenery, and you have a recipe for a wonderful workout. Strap on sturdy shoes and head out to some local nature trails to breathe in the fresh air and get your blood pumping. You’ll feel rejuvenated in no time.
Pedal away
Has your bicycle spent the winter stored away in the garage? Invite it out for a spin around the neighborhood to get in a workout and see all the plants blooming. Head down to the local farmers’ market to stock up on healthy produce for a spring salad. Or, ride down to the waterfront and enjoy the warm breezes and soothing waves. An afternoon of moderate cycling is a great way to ease back into a regular workout routine.
Tend your garden
Gardening doesn’t just help you grow your own food — it’s more productive than you might think. Planting seeds, pulling weeds and harvesting backyard crops involves a wide range of movements that activate different muscle groups and engage your whole body. Plus, you’ll get to reap what you’ve sown in the form of healthy fruits, veggies and herbs that bring new nutrients and fresh flavors into your diet.
Join a pickup league
Do you miss the friendship and athletic challenges of high school team sports? Other people in your area do, too! Join a pickup sports league with likeminded players. You can meet with local groups to try everything from soccer and softball to tennis, kickball and tossing a Frisbee around. You’ll make new friends and enjoy sunny springtime sights around your community in the process.
Tips for enjoying spring activities
After a relaxing winter, you might be impatient to get outside and start moving. Keep these useful tips in mind. They’ll help you make sure you stay injury-free as you ramp up activity levels in spring:
- Stay stretched. Even if you’re not trying high-intensity workouts, it’s still important to loosen your muscles. Staying flexible helps you move better.
- Get hydrated. Drinking enough water is important even when you aren’t sweating in the sun. Bring a bottle along, whether you’re heading out for a walk or strapping on your bike helmet.
- Apply sunscreen. Late spring through early summer is when the sun’s rays are strongest. Always apply sunscreen to exposed skin, especially your face, ears, neck and hands.
Are you looking for more spring fever cures? Visit us at bonsecours.com to make an appointment with a primary care doctor if you have any questions about implementing lifestyle changes.
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