Springing Forward Outdoors

​As we head into spring, we look forward to the longer, warmer days ahead. Though we will probably wake up a little less rested this Sunday, the extra hour of sunlight that we enjoy in the spring and summer months is well worth it. One of the best ways to enjoy the warmer, longer days is to bring your workout outdoors – and bring the whole family with you too!
 
Working out outside has many benefits; it is a great way to explore new trails or hiking spots near your home and that Vitamin D helps your body absorb minerals, as well as aid in digestion. Oftentimes, games with the kids or an afternoon spend doing yard work as a family can serve as exercise you don’t even realize you’re getting! If you’re looking for some inspiration for how you can get active outdoors this week, here is a list of some of our favorite activities – just don’t forget the sun block and a water bottle!
 

1. Go for a run or a walk: Whether in your own neighborhood or on a trail you’ve never visited, running or walking is a great way to get active outside. Even if you are running down the streets you travel everyday, there is just something different about seeing them on foot, rather than from your car. Running and walking are easy, inexpensive ways to exercise as a family. You could even set a goal to train for a 5K together over several months!
2. Do a little landscaping: Mowing the yard, raking leaves, pulling weeds, and planting trees or flowers don’t usually come to mind when you think about working out, but they are a great and productive way to work up a sweat. You will use muscles you don’t normally target and are almost guaranteed to feel a little sore the next day.
3. Get a little friendly competition going: There is nothing like a family game of basketball or sand volleyball to bring out some family rivalry! Venture to a local park with the ball for the sport of your choosing, and may the best team win! You will feel like a kid again and will burn those calories without even realizing it as you duke it out with your loved ones. The kids will love getting to practice a new sport and may just find something they can beat mom and dad at!
4. Take a hike: For a quick day trip, search for local hiking trails, pack a picnic lunch, and take off for a day exploring nature somewhere new. You will walk miles and learn more about the region in which you live. If you’re like us, you love seeing the Texas wildflowers in bloom, along with all the other sights and sounds you can only get in the great outdoors!

 
Do you have a favorite outdoor family activity?  Show us how your family gets exercise outside by posting a photo on twitter and tagging us! We can’t wait to see what everyone is doing with their extra hour of sunlight!