Tired of the same old gym routine or of being cooped up indoors now that the weather is getting nicer? From parks to pavements, step outside and turn the world into a workout space instead!

If you’re feeling sluggish after a long winter, or if you’re just tired of indoor exercise, then there’s nothing quite like getting moving outside in the breeze and sunshine. Outdoor workouts aren’t just a change of scenery—they can boost your mood, increase your motivation, and even save you money. Here are some easy ways to take your workouts outside, no matter your fitness level.

Back to Basics: Walk, Jog, or Run

The simplest way to get moving outdoors is right under your feet. Walking, jogging, or running doesn’t require fancy equipment—just a good pair of shoes. Hit up your local trails, parks, or even your neighbourhood sidewalks. For a weekend adventure, try hiking. Whether it’s a gentle trail or a challenging uphill climb, hiking is a great way to combine cardio with breathtaking views and a little dose of nature therapy.

Use Your Bodyweight

Who needs a gym when your own body is the perfect resistance tool? Bodyweight exercises can be done just about anywhere—on a park bench, a patch of grass, or even in your backyard. Create a simple circuit of squats, push-ups, walking lunges, planks, and burpees and repeat it 3-4 times with a minute of rest between rounds. You’ll get your heart rate up while building strength and endurance.

HIIT Your Workout Goals

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is perfect for outdoor spaces because you don’t need much room, and it keeps your workout short and effective. The idea is to push hard for a short burst, then rest or go easy before repeating. For example, you would do 30 seconds of exercises like jumping jacks, squat jumps, or high knees punctuated by 30 seconds of rest. Create a circuit that you can repeat 3-4 times for an effective, high-intensity 20-minute workout.

Become a Stairmaster

Find a set of outdoor stairs—at a park, stadium, or even your apartment complex—and you’ve got yourself a versatile workout spot. Running or walking up stairs works your legs, glutes, and core while giving your heart a solid workout as well. You can increase the intensity by adding stair jumps (jumping up one or two steps at a time) for an extra burn.

Take Your Yoga Practice Outside

Yoga doesn’t have to stay in the studio. Roll out your mat in a park, on the beach, or even on your balcony to enhance your connection to nature while you go through your routine. You can do your sun salutations directly under the sun, and the sounds of birds singing or the wind rustling through the leaves can replace your usual playlist.

Get Social

Sometimes, a little community can make all the difference to your workouts. Consider joining a local sports team or check out your community centre for outdoor fitness classes in local parks or running groups with your neighbours. Working out with others can keep you more motivated and accountable, and it’s a great chance to make some new friends.

When you take your workouts outside, the “gym” is always open, and the membership is free. Just make sure you put on some sunscreen, don’t forget your water bottle, and get moving!