Outdoor workouts give you a mental boost that comes from spending time in nature while also helping you reach your daily fitness goals. Fitness parks give you options for targeting and toning muscles that you cannot do from just jogging alone. Yet, training with outdoor gym equipment can be intimidating if you have never done it before, and even avid users of fitness parks have room to improve their workout routines. As you get ready to lace up your sneakers, you can use these tips to get the most out of your next session with outdoor fitness equipment.
Stay Cool And Hydrated
It is recommended to have at least 30 active minutes a day, five days a week. While extending your time helps you burn more calories and target more parts of your body, it also means that you spend more time in the sun. Make sure to look for a fitness playground that has park furnishings such as shaded benches that allow you to cool off between sets or after your session. Then, fill up your water bottle, put on some sunscreen, and get ready to give your workout your all. It’s always easier to keep up an intense pace when you know that you can cool off afterwards.
Bring A Workout Buddy
Since outdoor equipment uses your body weight, you have the benefit of never needing a spotter to help you tone your muscles. However, working out with a friend can be fun and motivational. Consider inviting a buddy to come with you to the fitness park on your next trip. Not only does this help you both stay safe in case of an injury, but it also helps to keep you accountable. When you know that your friend is waiting on you to show up, you’ll be more likely to get up and stay active.
Learn To Use Equipment Correctly
Most types of fitness equipment at the park are made to be intuitively used. However, proper form is necessary on all equipment in order to prevent injuries. Check out the signage around the park or ask another visitor to show you how to use the equipment. You also can look up how to use equipment online, and follow pictures on your phone. Once you start your workout, be sure to use proper form to make moves such as dips and squats more effective.
Change Up Your Routine
People often get attached to a preferred piece of equipment, or you may just love doing arm workouts over lower body exercises. However, it is essential to target different parts of your body throughout the week. Consider alternating between upper and lower body workout days so that you minimize soreness that stops you from sticking to your routine. Switching up your daily routine will also keep your workouts fresh and exciting.
Try Circuit Training
Another technique that you can take from the gym to the park is to perform circuits. According to Fitness Magazine, circuit training burns 30 percent more calories during each workout than a basic weightlifting workout. With this type of training, you move through several types of exercises that target different parts of your body. Since you don’t have to rest muscle groups between sets, you can shorten your rest time and keep your heart rate up.
Outdoor gyms are ideal for creating a low cost workout that lets you breathe fresh air and enjoy the sun, all while you get your daily exercise. Now that you have some tips to help you get started, go ahead and walk or run to the nearest fitness playground so that you can try them out.