Nature is Your Gym: A Journey into Outdoor Fitness
It’s that time of year again, the sun is shining, the weather is warming up and that means it’s time to get outside! Especially in California, the landscapes are so diverse and there is endless sunshine, it’s the perfect playground for those of us who love outdoor adventures and fitness. Can you imagine a better place to break a sweat than between the towering peaks of the Santa Monica Mountains and the rugged coastline of Big Sur? Coming from the midwest where it’s cold a good part of the year, I can’t imagine a better place to get an outdoor sweat. Let's dive into the world of outdoor adventure fitness in California, where we'll talk about hiking, biking, and all the super fun activities that await.
Big Sur
Hiking Trails: California is home to a wonderful network of hiking trails, just waiting for you to explore. Whether you're an experienced hiker looking for a new challenge, or you're a newbie looking for a pleasant stroll, your perfect trail is out there. I haven’t been lucky enough to walk every trail but there is everything from the famous Pacific Crest Trail to secret hidden gems in state parks. Some great trails that I have experienced are in Easton Canyon in Pasadena, Charmlee Wilderness Park in Malibu, Griffith Park and the Hollywood sign, Brand Park in Glendale, and the breathtaking vistas along the Big Sur coastline. These are some of the most scenic hikes in CA, but there is also the majestic redwood forests of Northern California and the alien landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park. No matter where you choose to go, every step you take is another step towards nature, adventure, and your fitness goals.
Mountain Biking: Ok this is a sport I don’t partake in. It looks so scary to me and I can be clumsy enough with my feet on the ground, I don’t need to be on wheels flying down the side of a mountain. But for all you adrenaline junkies out there, California's mountain biking scene looks like a thrill ride like no other. If you are up for the challenge, test your skills on the technical singletrack trails in the Sierra Nevada, tackle steep descents in the Santa Monica Mountains, or cruise through the rolling hills of wine country. Whether you're into cross-country rides or gravity-defying downhill runs, California is your playground for two-wheeled adventures. Just please be safe!
Surfing and Water Sports: I love swimming and being near the water. I will find any excuse to be at the beach and in the Pacific Ocean, no matter how cold may be. With over 800 miles of coastline, California is a dream come true for water sports enthusiasts. If you surf, catch a wave in iconic surf spots like Malibu, or explore hidden coves at my favorite little gem, Table Rock Beach in Laguna. If those aren’t for you, there’s kayaking, paddle-boarding, and snorkeling, too. Water sports are great low impact workout that’s gentle on your joints and really strengthen your body, especially your core. Whether you’re about getting your workout on in the water or along the water in the sand, there's a coastal adventure with your name on it.
Rock Climbing:
Now I’m not the biggest fan of heights so my version of “rock climbing” might not be the most exciting to people but it is a great activity to get you outside. The only rock climbing I have done is crawling along the cliffs down to the coastline of Big Sur. Otherwise all rock climbing for me happens indoors, with padding on the floor and attached to a pulley system. Whether you climb indoors or outdoors, rock climbing is a thrilling way to strengthen your grip, improve your mobility and flexibility, and improve your balance and coordination while hanging out with friends.
Outdoor adventure fitness isn't just a hobby – it's a lifestyle, especially in California. But no matter where you live, explore new horizons, and embrace the joy of movement in the great outdoors. Whether you're hiking through ancient forests, shredding trails on your mountain bike, or riding waves along the coast, the possibilities are as endless. Outdoor exercise has so many benefits. Not only is it the perfect way to add variety to your workout and challenge to your body, but it also give you a chance to connect with nature and put your mind at ease. So get outside, with a friend or by yourself, and go on an adventure that will nourish your body, and invigorate your spirit!