The temps are warming up, the flowers are blooming, and we’re beyond stoked to head outside. Whether you’re hitting your mat for #obéanywhere or hitting the road and trails for walks, hikes, runs, and rides, we fully support your transition to outdoor workouts.
The only catch? Exercising outside is a totally different ballgame than in your living room (duh). “We’ve gotten so used to being indoors in our homes for our workouts, and we need to develop awareness of our bodies outside of a room,” explains Melody D., obé instructor and training manager. In other words: It’s important to get some intel first before heading out!
Keep reading for tips from Melody to take your workouts—from obé classes to runs—into the great outdoors.
1. Always (and we mean always) warm up.
“Our muscles basically fall asleep during the day when they’re not in use—especially when we’re sitting at a desk all day long,” Melody says. This means you need to “wake up” your muscles with a warm-up before a workout, especially when heading out to a trail, pavement, or another uneven surface.
Before outdoor activities like biking, running, or hiking, do a 10-minute warm-up to activate all the muscle groups. Make sure whatever warm-up you choose includes dynamic stretches, which are designed that get the body moving and mimic the actual movements you’ll do in your workout. (As opposed to static stretches, which are held for a period of time and should be reserved for post-workout cool-downs.)
Try this 10-minute full-body dynamic stretch with Marcia M., or this activation and mobility warmup with The Stepbrothers.
2. Grab the right gear.
You might be able to get away without shoes for certain at-home workouts, but when heading outdoors, proper footwear is key. (Wondering which shoes are best for which class? Here are all your fitness footwear questions, answered.)
If you’re doing any sort of obé workout, you’ll also want to choose a flat surface, use a mat and towel, and don’t forget your water bottle to help you stay hydrated!
3. Stay aware of your surroundings.
One final note about outdoor workouts: Your personal safety is key. If you’re listening to music, don’t have it on full-blast, or consider wearing just one earbud, Melody recommends. She also always has her license on her when she’s out for a run. Some runners like to have a medical ID bracelet or tag.
And of course, always stay alert and aware of your route and surroundings, Melody reminds us, and know where you’re heading! If you’re planning a long hike or bike ride, use an app like AllTrails to map out your route ahead of time. Get out there and have fun!
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