30 Jul Parks and Recreation: Taking the Beaten Path

Welcome everyone to National Parks and Recreation Month! Parks are such a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.  Have you checked out your local park lately? If not, you’re missing out.  Parks are perfect for picnics, naps, and yes, exercise.

Let’s take a walk together, shall we?  Feel the lush grass? The shade of the trees? Visiting your local parks is the perfect way to get outdoors this summer and move.  We’re all about staying healthy and fit so, what better way to get some cardio in than with Mother Nature?

Spice up your run with some bodyweight movements.  Try running 400 meters and then perform 20 pushups, sit ups, or squats.  Hey, why not do all 3?  Including movements such as these will be sure to build those guns and washboard abs.

Find a local hiking trail. Griffith Park, Los Angeles

If you’re feeling energetic, try some burpees.  The name may be a turn off, but after, you won’t be anything but a turn on.  Hop down to a push up position.  Then, jump bringing both of your feet between your hands.  Hop back up bringing your arms over your head. Try to do 3 sets of 12.  (Warning: You may be a little sore tomorrow).

Try this Outdoors Bootcamp Workout.

Get your friends involved and organize a soccer game.  The more un-athletic you are, the more laughs you’ll have.  Add some friendly competition by making bets with the opposing team.  Whoever loses has to run a lap around the field!

If all else fails, you can always bring out your good ole’ bike.  You know the one that’s been sitting in your garage for years?  It’s stuck with you this long baby, it’s not going to fail you now.  Pack a lunch after your day of activities.  Make sandwiches, salads, and snacks to give you energy when you need it the most.  There are a million and one things you can do without spending a penny.

Check out Robinsbite’s previous entry, “Upgrade Your Picnic” for healthy snack ideas you can bring to your park visit.