7 Ways to Get Active Outdoors in 2020

10 February 2020

A new year is a perfect opportunity to try and get into shape and spend more time in the great outdoors getting active.

Here are just a few ways to help you get into the habit of spending more time outdoors in 2020.

 

Getting Outside and Walking

Probably the easiest way to enjoy the great outdoors is simply taking a walk in the fresh air. Even if it’s just walking to the park or the shops, or choosing to walk rather than drive to work.

It’s a good idea to invest in an activity tracker such as a Fitbit or use an app on your phone to track your steps every day. It’s a great way to motivate yourself to do more walking.

We’re lucky enough to be situated close by to some of the best walks in the country. Whether it be the Lake District or the Norfolk Broads. But you might be surprised at how many routes you can find in your local area.

For example, you could head to the local park or seek out some nearby woods. Or perhaps a walk by a canal or river, so don’t think that being in a town or city stops you from being able to find some greenery or from discovering somewhere new.

 

Jump on a Bike and Get Cycling

Cycling allows you to cover a lot more ground than walking. It is a low-impact exercise, meaning it’s easier on your muscles and joints and can be enjoyed by anyone.

Even if you’re a complete novice you can get out and about on a bike. And you don’t have to jump straight in with any off-road adventures.

As long as the brakes and tyres are working properly, just a simple road bike will do. And if you don’t want to buy one, there are plenty of places where you can rent them instead. Many cities and towns now have short time bike rental schemes, which charge you a small fee for the length of time you use them.

 

Running Your Local Area

Like walking, running is great cardio and offers the same benefits in less time. Even as little as a five-minute run being great for your health.

If you are heading out for a run, make sure that you invest in suitable shoes, or you could risk causing yourself an injury.

If you’re completely new to running, why not check out the couch to 5k scheme by the NHS, or one of the many apps that will track your progress.

 

Hiking a Trail

Stepping things up a notch, hiking isn’t just great for your physical health but gives you a real sense of accomplishment when you reach your destination. And you’re often rewarded with some spectacular views as well.

Get yourself a pair of sturdy boots, pack some snacks and get yourself out into your local countryside. Hiking doesn’t have to mean climbing a mountain. It could be as simple as walking through your local woodlands or fields.

Hiking is a great way to get out and experience nature. With walks of varying difficulty available for all ages and abilities.

 

Organised Sports to Stay Social

Aside from helping to keep you fit, one of the best things about getting involved with a sport such as football or tennis is the social aspect, getting to spend time with your friends or making new ones.

If you don’t want to commit to getting involved with a team or club, even spending some time down at the park kicking a football or throwing a frisbee around with the kids is a fun way to get out and burn some calories.

Golf is another great way to burn some calories, as you can end up walking a number of miles throughout the day. Especially if you’re dragging your clubs around the course with you. Be sure to check out our golf breaks at our Tydd St Giles Golf & Country Club.

 

Get Closer to Nature with Wildlife Spotting

No matter where you live, heading out in search of local wildlife is a rewarding way to get in touch with nature.

There’s nothing sweeter than catching a glimpse of a rare species in the wild.

There are lots of great nature reserves that are teeming with all manner of birds, mammals and insect life, including our own Fell End Nature Reserve in Arnside & Silverdale.

 

Gardening

Sometimes, you don’t even need to leave the house to get in a bit of outdoor physical activity. Looking after the garden is a good way to keep active. It can be a very therapeutic activity and good for your mental well-being too.

 

Fishing

You probably think of fishing as a pretty slow-paced activity. But as well as being super relaxing, there are plenty of health benefits to it too.

No matter what your age or ability, there are loads of different types of fishing and you can give it a try at several of our parks too.

 

No matter what you choose to do, spending time outdoors and being active has countless benefits for your mind and body. Improving your mood and energy, while helping you keep in shape and lower the risk of disease and health conditions too.