With climate change in the spotlight, we can all take small steps to lower our carbon footprint. Eco-friendly exercise is a fantastic way to do this while getting fit! This is the essence of the DIY Nation approach.
Does your fitness routine increase your carbon footprint? It doesn’t have to! Gyms are full of energy-consuming machines, but people have been keeping fit long before gyms even existed. With a bit of creativity and adventure, you can shake up your fitness routine and reduce your energy use. Here are four great unplugged exercise ideas:
Who says you need to leave your home for a good workout? You can create an unplugged fitness routine right at home. Lots of exercises use just your body weight—no need for a stair-stepping machine. For a fully unplugged experience, turn off the TV. If you love TV and want to keep it interesting, try exercises inspired by your favorite shows or characters.
Don’t like solo workouts? Get your family or friends involved. Exercising at home doesn’t mean you’ll be alone. Whether you’re doing push-ups in the living room with your partner or playing backyard football with neighbors, having company can make your home workouts more fun.
Another eco-friendly exercise option is to go for a walk, run, or bike ride around your neighborhood. It’s a great way to work out without using your car. Early morning walks or runs are perfect to enjoy the fresh air and nature, whether you’re in a suburb or a busy city. Find a tennis court and enjoy a friendly game.
If you’re close to your grocery store or post office, try running errands on foot or by bike. It’s an eco-friendly way to mix exercise with chores. The key is to make smaller, more frequent grocery trips so you can carry everything without a car. Plus, frequent trips mean more fresh produce in your life!
If you live near the ocean or a big lake, ditch the electronics and head to the beach. Swimming is a fantastic full-body workout, but that’s not your only option. Bring your family or friends—there’s something for everyone at the beach. Aquatic sports like skimboarding are a fun way to exercise. Start with a board and some determination, and soon you can show off cool tricks to your friends.
If you prefer staying dry, try running on the beach. Sand running works muscles that harder surfaces don’t touch. It’s lower-impact than pavement, but the unsteady surface can be tough on weak ankles. Beginners might want to start running on wet sand before moving to dry sand.
Hiking is another outdoor fitness activity that never gets old. There’s more to hiking than just backpacking and mountain climbing. Choose a favorite park and explore every part of it, or make a list of nearby parks and visit a different one each time. There are endless options!
Starting hiking doesn’t need much. Here are the essentials for exploring local parks:
Now, get out there and start your unplugged fitness routine today! Your body and the planet will thank you.
What’s your favorite eco-friendly exercise method? Share with us!
