Most of us want to get into better shape and feel healthier, but not everyone considers themselves a “gym person”. That’s okay! You can still get into great shape by working out at home, or even in the great outdoors. In fact, the extra boost of vitamin D will be good for you.
It might even be possible to create an outdoor exercise space at home. Check out these ideas and see if you feel inspired.
Build a pull-up bar. Pull-ups are one of the best exercises for toning and building strength in your upper body. And luckily, building a pullup bar is a simple task. As an alternative, a set of hanging rings offers similar exercise benefits.
Include a weight bench. A simple wooden weight bench is easily incorporated into your overall landscape, and comes in handy for simple outdoor exercises. Just carry your free weights outside, and enjoy your workout in the fresh air and sunshine.
Consider a sit-up bench. An inclined sit-up bench adds difficulty to typical sit-ups, and will fit right in with the rest of your outdoor gym.
Create a running trail. If you live on a few acres, creating your own gravel or paved running path is easy enough. Or, if you want to minimize impact on your knees, consider a plain dirt trail.
Plan a yoga garden. Any flat, grassy space can be used for practicing yoga outdoors. But the addition of hedges for privacy or a water feature for its soothing effects can take your yoga space to the next level.
And of course, a lot of your workout gear can already be used outdoors. Resistance bands, ankle weights, and other types of equipment can simply be carried out to the lawn and used there. If you anticipate getting super sweaty, or if sunburn concerns you, consider adding shade elements to protect you from direct sun in the summer.
If we can help you develop any of these ideas further, give us a call and we can discuss how to incorporate exercise space into your overall landscape design.