With summer coming in just a few short weeks, it's always good to think of new ways to get outside. Especially for those of us who are in an office for the majority of our time, getting outside is essential for our state of mind. Don't you just love the feeling of your body being warmed after being in a cold, dry office? That's how I feel whenever I leave a Starbucks after working there for a few hours. We're not here to talk about Starbucks though, we're here to talk about getting outside and what better time than when you're working out? I've come up with five ways to bring your workouts outside. I think you guys will like these.
1. Skip the treadmill and go for a walk or run outside. The treadmill is great for rainy days and freezing temps. When it's nice out though, skip the gym and head for a free-style run instead. Get reconnected with nature and keep running until you find your way home again. I can easily get lost in my neighborhood by taking a wrong turn. It's a nice little adventure.
2. Take rooftop yoga. Lots of gyms and yoga studios partner with other business to have sunrise or sunset yoga on rooftops. What better way to start or end your day than with a beautiful view and relaxing exercise? Get in the habit of doing this weekly and you'll be nice and toned halfway through summer!
3. Take a workout class in the park. Just like rooftop yoga, gyms and studios will host classes in parks during the summer. I know there are a few gyms and trainers who take their classes to the beach when the weather permits. Getting out of the gym gives you different scenery mixing up your regular routine.
4. Go for a bike ride. Chicago and Illinois in general have beautiful bike paths. Break out the old two-wheeler and head out without any real destination in mind. Cycling is great exercise and if you throw in lots of hills, you'll give yourself a great workout. Make it a family affair every weekend of you have kids.
5. Join a sport. Yes, really! Club sports are all over whether you're in your hometown or a big city. Join a volleyball team, basketball team or baseball team. Not only will you get good exercise, you'll also meet new people with similar interests. It's a great social and physical activity. How will you be getting more active outdoors this summer?
