If you go to the gym regularly, you can expect a good workout, but it can be frustrating when you have to drive far to get there and your time is already limited. Also, exercising in the living room can be challenging when there isn’t a lot of space, or you’d rather be outdoors. Making your backyard exercise-friendly can be a great solution when you want fresh air, a change in scenery, and the freedom to make the workout exactly what you want it to be.
Trampolines are an example of outdoor recreation the whole family can enjoy at any time of the year. Other equipment suggestions are below, along with top tips for transforming your lawn area into a custom gym. Doing so can benefit the health and well-being of all family members, as well as be a fun way to spend time together.
Four tips to make the yard more exercise-friendly:
1. Weatherproof your space
If you want to make your backyard more conducive to workouts, the weather is the first thing to consider. Unless you are in the desert, you’ll likely have some rainy days. So, consider creating a covered space for fitness without getting wet.
If you want to do workouts, rain or shine, spaces like detached garages or carports can be convenient. Or, hang a heavy-duty tarp between trees as a temporary cover to stay dry. Also, this approach will keep you from getting too much sun.
While hills are ideal for running, you must consider the terrain when making the backyard exercise-friendly. Choose a flat area, as it’s ideal for most workouts. If possible, choose an area where the grass and the pavement are next to each other to offer variety when exercising.
2. Prepare the backyard for exercise
Prepare the area where you plan to be active if the terrain is not already flat. Ensure the surface is level before adding equipment or getting active.
If the backyard is sloped or uneven, consider leveling it and adding topsoil. That can make for a safer and more satisfying workout in the morning or any other time of day.
Check out these morning workouts from BarBend.
3. Have enough space and height
If you add a cover overhead, as earlier suggested, ensure enough height to jump and stretch. Of course, having enough room length-wise is also essential.
If you want to lose weight, a long driveway or spacious backyard can provide plenty of room for workouts. If cardio training is part of the plan, you’ll want the space to jog, walk, and run laps to get the heart rate up. There’s more room to move around than indoors, plus there’s the benefit of enjoying the fresh air.
4. Invest in equipment
The best trampolines Australia offers are exercise-friendly, and you don’t need a lot of other equipment. Many exercises, for example, don’t require any special gear. If you want to take it a step further, strength training equipment is the best thing to buy.
Dumbbells and kettlebells are inexpensive and can be useful for strength training and metabolic conditioning. They can also be used in different ways to train various muscle groups.
Another approach is to use resistance bands. They can apply to different movements and stretches. Having a stopwatch or timer is also a good idea if you want to do time intervals or track how long you do certain exercises.
Common equipment for exercising in the backyard:
Resistance bands
These bands are easy to store and low-cost. They are usually made of rubber; therefore, they can withstand various weather conditions. You can purchase a variety of band sizes, lengths, and tension levels to create a custom workout.
Loop bands and tube bands are among the most popular types. They can be terrific for bulking up if more muscle is your goal.
Jump rope for backyard exercise
You do not need an elliptical or treadmill for excellent cardio exercise. Instead, an old-fashioned jump rope can work well.
As with the resistance bands, there is a wide variety of jump ropes, including fast ropes, weighted jump ropes, and beaded ones. Regardless of the type you choose, find a rope that suits your height.
Kettlebells or dumbbells
While barbells require plates, a rack, and clips, kettlebells or dumbbells do not. The latter two options are also highly versatile, offering a challenging workout.
Plus, they are relatively easy to move around the backyard if you want to change how you position the equipment in the backyard. They can be suitable for those looking to improve their physical health.
Slam ball
Slam balls are another equipment option. They are heavy exercise balls that are used for slamming on a surface.
A slam ball is made of thicker material than a medicine ball, in case you’re wondering the difference between them. They can be part of a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program. The added weight of the slam ball can work areas all over the body.
Concluding words on backyard exercise
Hopefully, this write-up gives you ideas to make the backyard exercise-friendly. It can be straightforward to do so and fun, plus it enables you to enjoy the outdoors more.
A smooth, flat surface is ideal, and there is a range of equipment to choose from. Stick within your budget too. After buying the initial equipment, you’ll likely save money as you’ll no longer pay for a gym membership.
Always see your doctor before changing your exercise routine. Be sure it’s right for you, given your medical history, current injuries, and more.