Soak Up the Sun with Outdoor Workouts

As the days get warmer and the sun stays out longer, it's hard not to want to spend all of your time outdoors. The idea of going to the gym seems less appealing, which is why warmer months are the perfect time to move your workouts outside.

Everyday objects and places can easily be adapted as workout tools, and you'll be enjoying fresh air and sunshine while you burn calories. Studies have found that working up a sweat in the great outdoors can actually increase the mood-lifting benefits of exercise. If you want to move your workout outdoors but aren't sure where to start, we have a few ideas that may be perfect for you. Simply add them to a run or do them on their own to incorporate more sunshine into your routine.

1. Hill Sprints

   Sprinting up nature's natural inclines will give you a high-intensity workout, burning a significant number of calories in relatively little time. Not only will you be getting a workout on the way up, but you will be toning your calf and hamstring muscles as you walk or run down too.

2. Park Workout

   Walk or jog to your favorite local park and use park benches or raised planter beds to add body weight workouts to your cardio routine. Add incline push-ups, jump-ups and triceps dips to help tone your upper and lower body.

3. Swimming

   Nothing says summer like jumping into a refreshing pool on a hot day. Pools are great for workouts of all kinds; the added resistance created by the water intensifies your workout and increases calorie burn. Swim some laps or just move your normal workout to the water. You'll be surprised how many exercises can be done with minimal modifications.

4. Hiking

   Go explore nature and hike a local trail or mountain with your friends and family. Not only will you be toning various leg and core muscles from walking, climbing and balancing on uneven ground, but you'll get a great cardio workout from inclines and keeping your body constantly moving. The beautiful views are an added bonus with this workout option.

5. Cycling

   Break out your bike and hit the road or trail with this classic outdoor workout. Cycling has remained popular for decades for many reasons. You just can't beat a great workout with fresh air and the ability to see the sights!

6. Gardening

   Some may consider it a hobby and others a chore, but gardening can also be considered a workout. Bending, squatting, digging and pulling weeds all add up to a full body workout. Solve two problems at once, and cross your workout off your to-do list, while leaving your yard looking better than before.

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