It’s time to ditch the boring treadmill and forget about the stuffy gym. Outdoor fitness is the way to go if you want to really test your fitness levels.

The great outdoors provides endless opportunities to challenge yourself both mentally and physically. From running and cycling to hiking and kayaking, outdoor fitness can help you enhance your cardiovascular health, while also boosting your mood and general wellbeing. Here are some of the best outdoor fitness activities to get you started:.

1. Running

Running is one of the most popular outdoor fitness activities out there. Whether you prefer a light jog around your local park or a hardcore marathon, running provides an intensive cardiovascular workout that’s sure to get your heart rate up.

The fresh air and beautiful scenery can also help eliminate some of the monotony of treadmill running, making it feel more like an adventure than a workout.

2. Cycling

Cycling is another great outdoor activity that can get your heart pumping. Whether you’re a mountain biker or road cyclist, there are plenty of different environments to explore on two wheels.

Cycling uphill, downhill, and through rough terrain requires strength, stamina, and coordination, making it one of the most challenging cardiovascular activities out there.

3. Hiking

Hiking is a fantastic outdoor activity that can provide both physical and mental benefits.

Walking uphill and on steep terrains can offer an intense cardiovascular workout, while exploring the great outdoors can help relieve stress and improve your mood. Hiking can be done almost anywhere, from local trails to national parks, and can be tailored to different levels of intensity depending on your fitness level.

4. Swimming

Swimming is a low-impact outdoor activity that can be great for anyone with joint pain or other physical limitations.

Swimming provides a full-body workout that engages your muscles and burns calories, while also improving your lung capacity and cardiovascular health. Swimming in open water can also add a new level of difficulty, as you adapt to changing water currents and temperatures.

5. Kayaking

Kayaking is an exciting outdoor activity that requires both strength and endurance.

Paddling against the current, avoiding obstacles, and navigating different water conditions can provide a great cardiovascular workout, while also engaging your upper body and core muscles. Kayaking can be done on rivers, lakes, or even coastal waters, providing plenty of options for exploration and adventure.

6. Climbing

Climbing can be an incredibly challenging outdoor activity that requires both physical and mental strength. Climbing a rock face or cliff requires full-body control and coordination, while also providing an intense cardiovascular workout.

Indoor climbing walls can be a great way to prepare for outdoor climbing, and can help you build up your strength and stamina over time.

7. Bootcamp Classes

If you’re looking for a more structured outdoor workout, bootcamp classes can be a great option.

Bootcamp classes typically involve a series of high-intensity exercises like burpees, push-ups, and jumping jacks, designed to build strength and endurance. Outdoor bootcamps typically incorporate the natural environment as much as possible, using park benches and hills to add extra challenges to your workout.

8. Team Sports

Joining a local sports team, such as soccer or ultimate frisbee, can be a fun and social way to get your cardio in. Playing team sports requires quick reflexes, agility, and endurance, making it a great way to improve your cardiovascular fitness.

Additionally, the camaraderie and competitive nature of team sports can help motivate you and keep you accountable as you work towards your fitness goals.

9. Beach Workouts

Working out on the beach can add an extra level of difficulty to your outdoor cardio routine.

Running through soft sand or swimming in the ocean can make your workouts more challenging, while also engaging muscles that you might not use as much normally. Additionally, the scenery and fresh air can be incredibly motivating, helping you push through even the toughest of workouts.

10. Trail Running

Trail running can be a fun and challenging way to get your cardio in while exploring nature.

Running on uneven terrain, over rocks and roots, and up and down hills can provide an intense workout for your cardiovascular system, while also working your lower body muscles. Additionally, getting out into nature and away from the city can be a great way to relax and rejuvenate.