Switching to outside training can be a refreshing change regarding cardio. The fresh air, the extra space, and the touch of nature can transform a workout from a chore to an adventure. And the best part? You can achieve all this in just 15 minutes. This quick and intense outdoor strength and cardio workout routine is designed to make you sweat and smile while fitting cardio into your busy (vacation) schedule.
Here, I will introduce an effective outdoor cardio workout that can be done anywhere. Whether you’re tired of the treadmill or want to enjoy the outdoors, this 15-minute session will get your heart pumping and muscles burning (in a good way) in no time.
Here, we’ll explore why outdoor workouts can be a fantastic addition to your routine and how to maximize your time with this efficient, high-intensity workout. Ready to embrace the outdoors and transform your strength and cardio routine? Then let’s go.
Jacob Lund
Benefits of an Outdoor Strength and Cardio Workout
Exercising outdoors has four great benefits, in addition to relieving the boredom of the cardio machine and adding much-needed variety to your routine.
Mental Health Boost
There’s a reason why a stroll in the park feels so rejuvenating. Outdoor workouts tap into nature’s built-in stress relievers, significantly boosting your mental health. Studies have shown that fresh air, sunshine, and greenery can work wonders for your mood and stress.
Soak Up The Sun
One of the simplest benefits of taking your workout outside is the exposure to natural sunlight. This is your body’s best source of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.
Variety and Fun
Let’s face it: running on a treadmill or doing the same indoor routine is boring. When you take your cardio outdoors, the world becomes your gym. Hills, trails, parks, and even city streets provide a constantly changing environment that keeps things interesting. This variety can make your workout feel more like play and less like work, keeping you distracted from the pain.
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Combining fresher air and natural environments can further improve cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of heart disease. Plus, the refreshing breeze on your face and the rhythmic sound of your feet hitting the ground makes things more interesting.
Before you jump in and take your cardio outdoors, ensure you have all your safety bases covered so your muscles and lungs are the only things burning.
Warm-Up and Cool-Down Importance
Before you dive in, remember that a solid warm-up and cool-down are non-negotiable. A dynamic warm-up gets your blood flowing, muscles ready, and mind focused, reducing the risk of injury. Conversely, cooling down helps your body transition back to a resting state, easing muscle tension and promoting recovery.
Hydration and Sun Protection
Staying hydrated is a must, especially when sweating outdoors. Bring a water bottle and take regular sips throughout your workout. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty—by then, you’re already on your way to dehydration. Also, wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and consider wearing lightweight, UV-protective clothing and a hat.
Weather Considerations
Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so always check the weather before heading out. If it’s cool, dress in layers; when it’s warm, opt for moisture-wicking fabrics to keep sweat at bay. In hot weather, exercise early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
It all sounds like common sense, but you know what they say about common sense? It’s not all that common.
15 Minute Outdoor Strength and Cardio Workout
Okay, enough talk, and now it’s time for action. Here’s a bodyweight cardio workout that can be performed anywhere for your cardio pleasure. Combining strength and cardio exercises with getting up and down from the ground makes your heart happy. You, maybe not so much.
Instructions
Following each bodyweight strength exercise, there will be a cardio move for reps. You will have one minute to complete each of the five supersets below. If you finish before the minute is up, that is your rest before moving on to the next one. Complete three circuits in 15 minutes for your cardio goodness.a
