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Take your workout outside

As the grass gets greener, days get longer and the temperature starts to warm up, one thought comes to most people’s mind: swimsuit season.

After being kept indoors for the past couple months, getting outside in the spring air is a must. But getting in shape is not always an easy thing to do.

“I really want to spend more time outside this summer,” says Krista Dunn, a SAIT student currently seeking ways to switch up her exercise routine. “A workout outside would be better for me because it will help keep things interesting. The change of scenery and the fresh air can be really motivational for a summer workout.”

Gym time isn’t for everyone, so why not bring your workout to the great outdoors. While running, biking, and inline skating are the most common ways to take advantage of the outdoors, there are ways to pump it up without extra equipment or skill.

Started over a year ago in Toronto, Booty Camp fitness for women takes fitness outside. “Everyone is going to get a workout that fits their needs,” says person trainer Jessica Starrow. “Women love coming here. The ladies that have been coming have been here since we’ve started.”

Laura Parry has been a member since June 2009.

“I absolutely love it,” she said. “It motivates me so much to live healthier.”

Incorporating such activities as running hills, agility ladders, burpies and resistance training, the boot camp group is a fun and different way to shed extra pounds.

“It’s not something I dread,” said Parry. “I want to be here. The instructors help so much. It helped me make a healthy life style.”

Finding something that not only motivates you but helps you diversify your workout is essential. “(It) gives a little extra to your workout,” said Starrow. “Whether you just want to tone or you’re an athlete that wants a good work out, there’s something for everyone.”

For some, having a group around you to encourage you will keep you on track is a big help.

“Sometimes it helps to have someone else pushing me to continue to work,” said Dunn.

Try it for yourself

A class may help some people stay motivated. But there are ways to get a boot camp workout without the fee. Jeff Osadec, a personal trainer with Peak Performance at SAIT, offers these outdoor workout tips that don’t cost a thing.

• sprint up and down hills. See a hill, and take a run up.
• body weight exercise. Find a big rock, pick it up and throw it. Toss it around. Toss it sideways and squat with it.
• run up the stairs in Sunnyside or on Memorial Drive.
• play at a children’s playground. Climb over and under things. Do pull-ups on the monkey bars.

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