When you’re cooped up indoors studying, doing assignments, scrolling through social media, or binge-watching your favorite shows, it’s easy to feel the effects of cabin fever. Spending so much time inside can leave you feeling sluggish and disconnected from the outside world. Fortunately, there’s a simple remedy—heading outdoors for some fresh air and exercise! This blog explores a variety of easy workouts and fitness activities you can do outside to soak up the sun, boost your energy, and refresh your mind and body.
Running or Jogging
One of the easiest and most cost-effective workouts you can do outside is running or jogging. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, it’s a great way to clear your mind, get some fresh air, and improve your cardiovascular health. Find a park, a trail, or just jog around your college campus to get those steps in. Don’t forget to bring some good tunes or listen to a podcast for motivation!
Pro Tip: Set goals, like increasing your distance or speed each week, to keep things interesting and push your limits.
HIIT Workouts in the Park
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a great way to burn calories and build muscle, and the best part is you don’t need any equipment. Head to a local park or open space and create a routine using exercises like jumping jacks, burpees, squats, lunges, and push-ups. The bursts of high energy followed by short rest periods will get your heart rate up and help you torch fat.
Sample Routine:
- 30 seconds of jumping jacks
- 30 seconds of rest
- 30 seconds of burpees
- 30 seconds of rest
- 30 seconds of squats
- 30 seconds of rest
- Repeat for 15-20 minutes
Biking
If you’ve got a bike, you’re in for a fun way to explore the outdoors while getting an excellent cardio workout. Many college campuses and nearby areas have bike-friendly paths or trails, so take advantage of them! Biking is easier on your joints than running but still helps you build endurance and burn calories.
Bonus: Make biking part of your daily commute to class to sneak in exercise without thinking about it.
Yoga in Nature
Imagine doing yoga surrounded by trees, birds chirping, and the sun warming your skin—sounds pretty relaxing, right? Practicing yoga outdoors not only improves your flexibility and strength but also enhances your mental clarity and reduces stress. Bring a yoga mat to a quiet park or even your college’s quad and go through your favorite flow. You can even invite friends for a peaceful group session.
Pro Tip: Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to practice, as the weather is cooler and the environment more serene.
Outdoor Sports
Sometimes working out doesn’t have to feel like a workout. Grab a group of friends and get competitive with outdoor sports like basketball, soccer, frisbee, or volleyball. Many college campuses have courts and fields that are perfect for pickup games. These activities are fun, social, and offer an effective way to get your heart rate up while also improving agility, coordination, and endurance.
Try This: Join or form an intramural team if your campus offers it. It’s a great way to make new friends while staying active.
Hiking
If your campus is near a nature preserve, mountains, or trails, hiking is an incredible way to exercise while soaking in the beauty of nature. Hiking challenges your legs, improves your cardiovascular fitness, and lets you escape the stresses of college life for a few hours. Plus, the varying terrain keeps your body guessing and works different muscle groups than you might engage in a traditional gym workout.
Pro Tip: Always bring water, snacks, and sun protection, and choose trails that match your fitness level. Bring a friend or two for safety and company.
Bodyweight Strength Training
If you want to build muscle without heading to the gym, bodyweight exercises are your go-to. Find a park with a bench or use any flat surface to do exercises like tricep dips, step-ups, incline push-ups, and box jumps. These functional movements help tone and strengthen your muscles while getting you outside for some fresh air.
Sample Circuit:
- 10 tricep dips on a bench
- 15 step-ups (each leg)
- 20 incline push-ups
- 15 squats
- Repeat for 3-4 rounds
Outdoor Bootcamp with Friends
If you thrive on group workouts, organize an outdoor bootcamp with your friends. You can take turns leading different exercises, like sprints, jump squats, or bear crawls. Not only does this make working out more fun, but it also keeps everyone accountable and motivated.
Pro Tip: Add in challenges or friendly competition, like seeing who can do the most push-ups in a minute, to keep things engaging.
Rollerblading or Skateboarding
Rollerblading and skateboarding are not just for kids—they’re fun ways to work your core, legs, and improve your balance. If your college has smooth paths or parking lots, use those areas to get moving. It’s an exciting workout that doesn’t feel like exercise but still helps you burn calories and get in some cardio.
Outdoor Stair Climbing
Look for outdoor stairs near your campus, like those leading up to buildings or stadium bleachers. Running or walking up and down stairs is a killer workout for your legs and glutes. It also elevates your heart rate quickly, giving you a powerful lower-body workout. Add in push-ups or planks at the top of each set to make it a full-body challenge.
Getting out of your college apartment for an outdoor workout is a great way to stay active, break free from the monotony of indoor routines, and reduce stress. Whether you’re running, biking, or doing bodyweight circuits in the park, outdoor exercise can help you stay fit and feel refreshed. So lace up your sneakers, grab your water bottle, and head outside for your next workout! You’ll come back feeling stronger, both mentally and physically.
