You know you need to get moving, be more active, and exercise. You hear it all the time. So why is fitness looked at as a chore?

Many people believe that the only place you can get fit and get in shape is the gym but striving for your ideal body doesn’t have to be confined to that space. There are plenty of fun activities you can do outdoors that will make you forget you’re exercising.

Let’s take a look at the best outdoors activities that are fun and effective at helping you achieve your fitness goals.

4. Hiking

Nothing is easier than going on a hike. You strap on a sturdy pair of shoes or boots, depending on the season, and you hit the trail. Whether you prefer an easier pace or you are looking for a challenge, there are plenty of paths to choose. Make a day of hiking and prepare a backpack with the following:

• Food (trail mix of nuts, granola, seeds, dried fruit works best)
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Bug spray (depending on the season)
• Water
• Sports drink (very important for long hikes)
• A small (just in case) emergency kit

3. Ultimate Frisbee

Ultimate Frisbee is the ideal game for those looking for a fun, exciting time without the technicalities or roughness of traditional sports such as football and soccer. Usually referred to as “Ultimate,” this game is extremely simple to play. You’ll quickly learn the rules, which means you just need to focus on perfecting that Frisbee throwing technique. Here’s a run-down of Ultimate:

• Two team – Seven players on each
• No physical contact is allowed between teams
• Score goals by catching the Frisbee in the other team’s end zone (Just like football)
• You can throw the Frisbee in any direction
• You cannot run with the disc – You must pass and you only have 10 seconds to throw/pass
• When a pass/throw is not completed (e.g. out of bounds, drop, block, interception), the other teams gets the Frisbee

2. Adventure / Obstacle Parks

Remember watching those obstacle course shows when you were a kid?

Well, there are plenty of these parks that are open and waiting for you to visit. Obstacle courses, also called Adventure Parks, are extremely popular worldwide. You can climb up rock walls and swing to a platform where you will zip line to the next adventure.

There are varying degrees of adventure parks throughout the country, so it’s important to do your research before heading out. Make sure that the park or course is something you can handle, especially if you have previous medical conditions.

Want a complete listing by State? Check out this comprehensive list from the people over at Mud Run Guide.

1. Travel

The best and most fulfilling way to get outdoors AND get in shape is to travel.

When you travel, you have an opportunity to ditch the car and public transportation and really see a city for what it is. You’ll experience more culture and local tradition by walking and biking around. Best of all, you move at your pace. No need to worry about having enough time to see or do something.

Healthy options for food exist worldwide and they are usually some of the most popular options for local cuisine.

Get out, see the world, and get in shape.

Tell Us What You Think!

What gets you out of the house and in shape?

Let us know in the comments section below!