Get Outside and Enjoy Nature's Benefits

With busy schedules and hectic lifestyles, it can be difficult to take care of ourselves. Many of us find ourselves stressed out and overwhelmed, leading to physical and mental health problems. However, spending time in the great outdoors can be an excellent way to relieve stress and stay fit. Thankfully, Arizona is providing us with the perfect weather to get outside and enjoy nature’s benefits! Here are some of the best outdoor activities to help you stay healthy and relaxed outside of the Fitness Collective gym. 

Hiking:

Hiking is a great way to get outside and enjoy nature while also getting some exercise. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek, there are hiking trails for all skill levels. Hiking can help reduce stress and anxiety by providing an opportunity to disconnect from technology and connect with nature. It also offers a full-body workout that can improve cardiovascular health and muscle strength. Here are some of the best hiking trails in the Phoenix Valley and Flagstaff. 

Biking:

Biking is another great way to enjoy the outdoors and stay fit. Cycling provides a low-impact workout that can help improve cardiovascular health and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Biking can be done on paved roads, off-road trails, or even on a stationary bike. It's a fun and accessible way to exercise while enjoying the outdoors.

Kayaking:

Kayaking is a popular water sport that can be enjoyed in the rivers and lakes found in Arizona. It's a low-impact fitness activity that provides a full-body workout, focusing on the arms, back, and core. Kayaking is also a great way to relieve stress and enjoy the beauty of nature. Paddling along calm waters can be a peaceful and relaxing experience that allows you to disconnect from the world and recharge your batteries. Plus, it’s a great reason to plan a day trip and explore a new area!

Yoga:

Yoga is a form of exercise that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. It can be done indoors or outdoors, but practicing yoga in nature can be a particularly relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Yoga has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve flexibility and muscle strength, and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. As an added benefit, taking time to stretch your muscles will help you get more out of them in the weight room. It's a low-impact activity that can be done at any fitness level and is a great way to connect with yourself and nature. Find a quiet park in your community to practice your yoga; there’s even a good chance that you can find a local group that meets for yoga on a regular basis! 

Running:

Running is a popular outdoor activity that can be done almost anywhere, anytime. It's a high-impact activity that provides a cardiovascular workout and can help improve endurance and muscle strength. Running has also been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Running in nature can be a particularly invigorating experience, providing a sense of freedom and connection to the natural world.

Swimming:

If there is anything Arizona has a lot of (besides cacti), it's pools! Swimming is a low-impact fitness activity that provides a full-body workout while also being gentle on the joints. Swimming can help improve cardiovascular health, increase muscle strength and endurance, and reduce stress levels by providing a sense of weightlessness and relaxation. Plus, it’s a great way to cool off as we get inevitably closer to those hot summer months!

Gardening/Yard Work:

Gardening and yard work are great ways to connect with nature while also getting some exercise. They are typically low-impact activities that can help improve flexibility, strength, and endurance. Maintaining your garden or yard can also reduce stress and anxiety by providing a sense of calm and purpose. And at the end of the day, you may just end up with an enviable lawn. Win-win!

When the weather is nice, spending time in the great outdoors is a wonderful way to relieve stress and stay fit. At Fitness Collective, we believe it’s important for your overall well-being to stay active even when you’re not at the gym. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, kayaking, yoga, running, swimming, or gardening, there is an outdoor activity that can suit your interests and fitness level. The benefits of spending time in nature are numerous, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving cardiovascular health, increasing muscle strength and flexibility, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed or need some exercise, consider heading outside and enjoying the beauty of nature. Your body and mind will thank you for it!