Adrenaline sports have been a big thing for quite a while now. The idea of throwing yourself off of a bridge connected by only a bungee chord, or out of a plane, may feel like the last thing many people would want to do. But there is a growing demand for extreme activities – and new, more extreme sports are being invented all the time.
You can even watch some extreme sports on TV – and bet on the events at sites profiled at sportsbettingsites.com. But if you are interested in a more gradual introduction to outdoor activities, there are plenty to choose from for beginners. Getting outside and getting the heart pumping is obviously a healthy way to live your life and – as our list of activities will show – you don’t have to jump off, or out of anything, if you don’t want to!
Cycling
Cycling and mountain biking is getting more popular as people recognize the benefits of ditching cars and discovering nature on two wheels. It is also an activity that all ages can enjoy, so that makes it perfect for entire families to spend time together in a way that isn’t just sitting in front of the television.
As with any activity, you can spend as little or as much as you like. But the basics can be very inexpensive. Safety gear is a must, but from there the world is ready to explore. Whether you enjoy cycling around a park, your neighborhood, or mountain biking through local forests, as soon as you learn how to ride a bike you will never look back.
Climbing
Ice climbing is one of the latest trends in extreme sports. But you don’t have to scale frozen peaks to enjoy this activity. In fact, you don’t even have to be outside to begin with. Obviously, that goes against this whole outdoor activities guide. But we think we can make an exception for complete beginners.
Safety is important for every level of expertise, but you can learn the basics at an indoor climbing center and then take your newly found knowledge into the outside world. There is no need to push yourself to new limits if you don’t want to and the views at the top of any summit, however small, will be stunning.
Hiking
We have lumped all kinds of walking into this activity. But that does just show how versatile this pastime can be. From scenic walks through parks and forests, to designated day hikes through national parks, you can take it at your own pace and level whenever you like.
Most people are able to walk to some degree, so pushing it on a level to hiking trails should not be a problem after a while. Make sure you remember to pack water and snacks – and also do your research about where to stop for more food and drinks along the way.
Trail Running
This activity may seem like a bit of a jump from taking a stroll through your local town, but it is really just a progression from the day hikes we were just talking about. It is just that you will be moving a little faster. You probably won’t be out for quite as long either, so less equipment will be needed.
A water bottle is essential. But, apart from that, it is really up to the individual what to take along with them, depending on the terrain and weather conditions. Those lucky enough to live near national parks will be spoiled for choice, but “trails” can be found just about anywhere.
Paddle Boarding
There are plenty of extreme and adrenaline watersports to choose from. But just getting into the water is a good enough start. Swimming – either in pools or in the sea – is a great way to ease into exercise and being healthier. But paddle boarding is a great next step.
The basics of stand up paddle boarding, or SUP, are very easy to pick up and you can decide how energetic, or not, your session is going to be. Falling off into the water is the worst thing that can happen and even that might be tempting on a hot summer day. Take a few lessons to get the hang of it and then move out onto some placid water to relax.
Hot Air Ballooning
This one might be the down the list when it comes to energy expended. But it is an incredible experience and one of the most visually stunning outdoor activities out there. The feeling of being suspended in the air might cause anxiety for some, but the views will be well worth it.
Hot air ballooning is obviously an activity that takes a little more preparation and cost – and not one that you can just have a go at. But all you need to do is find a reputable company offering hot air balloon rides and then you will be able to see the world from a whole new vantage point.
Camping
Our last outdoor activity could actually include any or all of the ones we have already profiled. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and pitch a tent to experience nature again. You can rough it as much or as little as you want, with campsites dotted all over the place.
It is completely up to you what you do when you have found your location – even if it is just setting up a few chairs and taking in the view. Wherever you end up going, the main idea is to have fun and camping in the wild, or any other outdoor activities mentioned here, will provide that.
Don’t be put off by the thought of having to spend lots of money on the best equipment. We have shown that there is a range of outdoor activities that can be experienced completely free of charge. There is no need to worry about your levels of expertise either. Just turn the TV off, put the phone down, and head out into the great outdoors – at a pace that suits you.
