Best Outdoor Sports

Are you an outdoor lover?
Being outdoors gives you a breath of fresh air and keeps you fit. Lets explore some of the best activities outdoors.

Supported by Alejandro Forcades

Whether you prefer to chill out under the stars, hit the trails, or explore the great outdoors, theres something for everyone who loves to play sporting activities. It doesn't matter whether you're a pro or a beginner, a team sport enthusiast, or an individual activity lover; the options are endless if you look in the right places. This article explores some of the best outdoor activities you can engage in.

outdoor sports on a snowy mountain

Running

Who doesn’t love a good run? Running is one of the most popular sporting activities in the world. It is a great way to stay active and healthy. Everyone from professional athletes to casual joggers runs regularly as it helps burn extra calories and improve cardiovascular fitness. You can run on the beach, in a forest or somewhere else that you love.

Trail Running

It might not be an easy option for beginners, but if you’re looking to take your activity game to the next level, trail running is an absolute must. It combines running and hiking into an exhilarating in-depth experience. Trail runners use different approaches for traversing diverse terrain. To enhance the fun without much worry, you need safety gear such as gloves, sunglasses, and leg guards.

Hiking

Hiking is an excellent activity for those who love nature, being one with the earth, and seeing breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and other natural wonders. There are all different kinds of hikes to choose from. Some people prefer a peaceful stroll, while others like to go on vigorous hikes or even multi-day hike trips. You can just walk around your neighborhood or hike through different parts of the world.

Skiing

Skiing is another winter activity that a lot of people enjoy doing. It is similar to snowboarding, but it also has its own set of differences. Experts say that skiing comes with less adrenaline, but the feeling is more relaxing and enjoyable.

Skimo

Another outdoor sport that continues to rise is ski mountaineering or SkiMo. As we can figure out from its name, this sport combines mountaineering and skiing. It involves climbing mountains with the skis on or wearing them and skiing down. It is usually practiced away from groomed ski areas. Over the years, skimo has evolved, and today it’s all about moving fast and light. It’s an excellent cardio workout, and some people consider it “fitness skiing.” It is also an ideal cross-training for summer sports like trail running or climbing.

Snowboarding

If you prefer winter sporting activities, then snowboarding is one of the most thrilling activities you can try. Snowboarders like to ride down the snowy slopes of mountains using various equipment such as snowboards and bindings. Learning how to use a snowboard properly takes some time and practice, but anyone can master it in no time. It is a favorite activity among active people interested in adventure and who want to live life on the edge.

Kilian Jornet climbing up a mountain

The Benefits of Practicing Outdoor sporting activities

Keeps you active

The most significant benefit of practicing outdoor sports is keeping you active. You learn how to move your body and take part in physical activity. Outdoor sporting activities help keep your mind and body healthy. If you experience chronic pain in your joints or muscles, exercising might be a good option for you to consider.

Improves cardiovascular fitness

Another benefit that outdoor sporting activities have to offer is improved cardiovascular fitness. Running will teach your heart to work faster and more efficiently, which reduces the risk of heart problems later in life. Having a healthy heart also helps maintain healthy blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels, so getting outdoors is something that everyone should consider doing more often. Being physically active allows you to live longer with better quality of life. Also, outdoor sporting activities are a great way to lower blood pressure and get all those harmful chemicals out of your body. They will help with your overall body weight as it burns lots of calories simultaneously. Many people who have hypertension have been successfully able to control this condition just by getting outdoors regularly and exercising. Just get your body active.

Breath of fresh air

There is always something about being outdoors that not many people can explain, but it still makes them feel good. It is like the air outside has a different smell or is just fresher than inside. In reality, the air outside smells and feels better because of all the nature around you.

Difference Between Outdoor and Indoor Sporting activities

Outdoor sporting activities are different from indoors. The main difference between outdoor and indoor sporting activities is that outdoor sports are played in a natural environment, whereas indoor sporting activities are played in a controlled artificial environment. Popular indoor sporting activities include tennis and badminton, whereas outdoor sports include hiking, trailing, and snowboarding. In outdoor sports, the focus is usually on the natural environment and dodging obstacles.

Conclusion

It is important to get outside because it is beneficial on so many levels. It will help you cleanse your body, but it also helps you change your personality and mindset for the better. As you choose the best outdoor sports, you must speak to your health practitioner to determine what you can and cannot do depending on your body and pre-existing medical conditions.

Photography: Matti Bernitz; Kilian Jornet

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