As the year goes on it is getting to be that time of the year when the sun comes out and stays out! What I love about the warmer weather (among many other things) is that it gives me a great opportunity to take my daily workouts outside the gym, I know for many of you the idea of doing your workouts outside can be daunting or frustrating, due to things such as needing certain equipment (e.g. weights, leg press, treadmill). However, what I am about to suggest to you are not only alternatives but also, something you can incorporate into your time at the gym. So below will be some exercises you can do outside in the beautiful sun!

1. Park bench Push up

In this exercise, you’ll do three kinds of push-ups using a park bench.

  • First, put your feet on the park bench and your hands on the ground, belly down. Do 10 push-ups this way
  • Then switch and put your feet on the ground and your arms on the bench. Do 10 more this way
  • End with 10 regular push-ups completely on the ground

2. Park-Bench Dip: Fitness Focus: Triceps, Shoulders, Core

  • Sit on a bench and place your hands on either side of your hips
  • Slide your butt forward, supporting yourself with your hands
  • Bend elbows, bringing upper arms almost parallel to ground, then return to starting position
  • Keep lower back close to the bench throughout the exercise
  • Complete 12 to 15 reps.

3. Cardio: Running

This is very simple and pretty self-explanatory; you can do your cardio outside! Great option about the sun is that you can pick a lovely beach and run along the water. At times that can tend to get a little chilly, but with the weather warming up you’ll be able t get a nice sweat out of the run and small breezes here and there.

4. Hiking

Take your workout to the hills! If you live in Vancouver there are plenty of options to be able to get your hike on. One, in particular, is Grouse Mountain’s Grind. This is a great choice to do when the weather is warmer. You will be able to strength those legs, burn some calories, and build up your endurance.

5. Swimming

Yes, this is the time to hit up the beach and go for a swim! Great activities such as surfing, waterboarding, or even paddle boarding are great activities that helps you keep the blood going and great to do with a group of friends.

6. Yoga

Last but certainly not least; you can take your yoga session outside! How beautiful it would be to listen to the wind and the birds while you do your breathing exercises. As well as if you are the type of person who likes to do quick and semi-intense cardio-style yoga, then the soft breeze of being outside will be very beneficial to you. Location is also not a problem as well; you have the ability to do this in park or even on the beach!

There you have it! These are a few activities that you can try out in the sun. As mentioned before it is always great to be inside the gym since you have the ability to know where everything is and all equipment and machines are there and convenient. However, exercising outside can have amazing benefits such as your energy levels are higher when you practice your exercise outside, and you can get a great amount of vitamin D. So give these exercises a try and see how you feel!