No matter where you live, there’s a season where nothing’s better than an outdoor workout.
For some lucky folk (like those in Los Angeles) that season is… every season!
Whether you’re a newbie to outdoor workouts, or are looking to take yours up a notch, we’ve got 7 fitness devices that will improve and enhance your outdoor workout.
Keep in mind though that all you really need for an outdoor workout is a good pair of shoes. Except when walking on the beach, then you don’t even need those.
Table of Contents
1. Bring it With You
Depending on what type of workout you’re doing, you need a place to store your gear, or at least stash important things like a small tube of sunscreen and your car keys. Hikers and Runners love this running belt from Amazon that holds two water bottles, has space for a smartphone, and a place you can slip your keys.
If you have more gear that you need to transport, a bigger backpack or duffel bag will do.
2. Fitness Watch
A Fitbit is a game changer when it comes to working out. Not only does it track the calories you’ve burned, your heart rate, and other stats from your sweaty session, it has other great health related features, too.
3. Resistance bands
Resistance bands like these ones are super lightweight, and you get 5 different resistance levels. They work to expedite the toning of your booty and legs, and fit easily into your pocket. They are excellent for travel, or to use outdoors for your outdoor workouts.
4. Music
Nothing takes an outdoor workout to the next level like a killer playlist. However, it’s important when working out outdoors that you’re able to hear the sounds of things around you. This article from the JT Legal Group contains some excellent tips on pedestrian safety, such as what to do if you’re hit by a car as a pedestrian, and even the extent that you could be considered liable.
So if your walks, runs or bike rides require a boost from some of your favorite music or motivational speakers, the Bose Sport Open Earbuds are the way to go. They let you hear your upbeat tunes, and also the sounds of cars, waves, people, and other things you may want to be aware of when you’re out and about.
5. TRX Pro 4 System
The TRX Pro 4 System is a strap design that allows you to recreate some of the most popular equipment at the gym from the convenience of… anywhere you can strap them to. Your bodyweight and the angle you choose increases or decreases the challenge. They come with a mesh bag, and carabiners to attach them to anything – tree, pole, whatever – that’s stable enough to support you and your workout.
6. Smart Jump Rope
Everything is smarter these days, including your jump rope! The Smart Jump Rope has a downloadable app which you can connect to through your smartphone. The app keeps track of your workout data, and the jump rope comes with three different workouts.
It’s lightweight and easy to take wherever you go, and it’s a convenient way to get your cardio in and have a little fun.
7. Hydration tracking water bottle
The HidrateSpark Pro may look like an ordinary water bottle, but it’s anything but. It has the usual vacuum seal that keeps beverages at the perfect temp. It connects to the downloadable app associated with it on your smartphone via bluetooth, and tracks your water intake – you know when it’s time to sip because the “puck” at the bottom of the water bottle glows. Pick your favorite size, color, and water consuming method: sip or chug.
There’s nothing worse than a dehydration headache. It can end an otherwise amazing workout when you don’t get enough fluid, and now you won’t have to worry about becoming dehydrated.
Bonus: Man’s (or your) best friend
We all know a dog is not a device. However, they do enhance a walk, run or hike. Take your dog with you and explore a new trail together. If you don’t have a dog, friends work well too. Pressed for time? Combine socializing with a workout. There’s nothing better than meandering along a beautiful trail high in the Santa Monica Mountains while catching up with a close friend.
Conclusion:
If there’s one thing all health experts can agree on, it’s the benefits of exercise and getting outdoors. Regular exercise and time in nature helps us live longer, and makes us happier, too.
Finding workouts that you enjoy will make you less likely to skip out on them.
Have fun, and remember to look both ways before crossing the street.