Put Some Spring in Your Step with These Outdoor Exercises

As the sun begins to break through the clouds and spring is nearing full bloom, now is the time to escape your wintertime blues and soak up the springtime sun. Check out some of these fun-filled activities that can help you enjoy the warmer weather this season!

 Walking

If you are looking for a low-impact cardio activity, walking is perfect. This could be anything from a 30-minute leisurely stroll, or speed walking. To amp up your walking routine, consider wearing leg weights, carrying handheld weights, and experimenting with different types of arm movements designed to provide you with a larger range of motion while walking. Walking is excellent because it is something you can do anywhere you go, even if you are walking around your neighborhood while chatting with one of your friends.

Hiking

If you are looking for an outdoor activity that is a bit more challenging than walking, look for local areas that you can travel to, and enjoy a couple hours of trail walking or hiking. Consider making a day of it, and bringing a picnic lunch and other outdoor games. Games could include selections that encourage physical activity, such as throwing a Frisbee or bocce ball. You can even bring board and card games along.

Swimming

While there are many indoor pools to choose from, there is something extra special about swimming outdoors. This could be at a local lake, beach, or community pool. Just ensure that proper supervision and appropriate swimming gear is available. Swimming is ideal because it is a low-impact exercise—at least when swimming in a pool or other calm waters. Swimming and water aerobics are also ideal for seniors who are recovering from injuries.

Water Sports

Another excellent group activity that many are likely to enjoy as the weather warms up are water sports. Depending upon your local climate and waterways, this could include anything from:

  • Water Volleyball or Polo
  • Water Basketball
  • Snorkeling
  • Paddle Boating
  • Calm Water Kayaking
  • Renting a Sailboat for the Day

Taking Cardio Outdoors

Another excellent way to enjoy the fresh air while working out is to take group cardio classes outdoors. While fitness routines may have to be adapted when outdoors, working out in nature can be quite inspiring. This could include anything from low-impact aerobics to chair yoga or resistance training.

Cycling

Cycling is another excellent outdoor activity for seniors. This could be a group bicycle tour, or even a “sociable” bicycle designed for two side-by-side riders—or even six passengers in two rows of three. Sociable bicycles are excellent because the peddling is shared, and the two middle seats allow riders to rest if needed—or allow individuals who can’t pedal to ride along.

As the saying goes “if you don’t use it, you lose it.” By scheduling group fitness activities with your friends and loved ones—you will encourage ongoing physical fitness, and create excellent opportunities for increased socialization. Just make sure to schedule activities that provide a mix of both low- and high-impact fitness.

Your senior years shouldn’t be spent in solitude; consider being a part of an active and lively community by moving to a Concordia campus near you. With senior living facilities and health care services all through Western Pennsylvania and its surrounding areas, you are sure to find a Concordia campus that fits your lifestyle needs and helps you make the most out of your senior years. Discover how you can make the most out of your retirement and take a tour of a Concordia location near you today!

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