There’s nothing quite like being in the great outdoors once the weather gets a little warmer. Nature has a calming effect, and getting some exercise and breathing in fresh air is great for your health.
You also don’t have to worry about paying for a gym membership when you could just as well pursue relatively low-cost options outside your front door. It’s worth mentioning that exercising outside actually has a stronger effect on your blood pressure and mood than trudging away on an elliptical indoors, so that’s another plus.
Here are a few outdoor hobbies that definitely help you build new skills, and increase stamina over time.
1. Yoga
No, you don’t have to sweat away in a yoga studio to gain the full benefits of the practice. Outdoor yoga is just as effective for your body and incredibly relaxing. You can build your yoga skillset by pursuing more specific aspects of the practice, like Vinyasa. Practicing yoga will allow you to gain strength, and better stability, while also lowering your blood pressure. Outdoor yoga is especially good in terms of reducing stress, and it gives you a chance to focus on mind and body wellness in a holistic manner.
2. Hunting
This may not be for everyone, but for those who are curious about hunting, then you should give it a try. Even if you don’t come back home with any game, you can still obtain all the benefits of the sport. You will need to invest in the proper gear – don’t forget your reflective clothing or a compound bow for beginners – but it should be well worth the effort regardless. With hunting, you’ll hone skills like focus, finetune your aim, and generally learn to remain calm under duress. It’s one of the oldest outdoor activities known to man, and it’s one that many continue to pursue given the clear benefits it offers.
3. Paddling
If you want to get toned while also enjoying a calm sport outdoors, then paddling may be exactly what the doctor ordered. Paddling is a great way to make the best of being in the midst of nature and on the water. It offers tremendous benefits both mentally and physically, and it functions almost like a form of meditation. In addition, paddling works the upper body by increasing muscle strength in the back, arms, and chest. It’s also good for fortifying your core if that’s something you feel you need to focus on.
4. Cycling
If you want a low-impact exercise that will allow you to make the most of various scenic routes throughout your neighborhood, then cycling is for you. It’s fun, but it also works your calves, glutes, and other muscles, while also burning calories. So, if you want a fun way to get your cardio in, and would like to strengthen the lower part of your body, this may be a great outdoor hobby to pursue.
Being outdoors has so many clear-cut benefits, and it’s something everyone should take the time to enjoy. Being cooped up inside is really bad for our health, and it helps to get outside once in a while, if only for a brief walk. Also, if you have a tendency to get bored, then taking up a new outdoor hobby would be like hitting two birds with one stone.
