5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Outdoor Workout

Now that spring is almost here, the weather where you live is probably warming up (unless, of course, it's warm year-round where you live!). It's a great time to start gearing up to take your workouts outside, if you haven't already!

Exercising outdoors is one of my favorite things to do, and I highly recommend it. It's a great change of pace that will get your blood pumping and your senses engaged, and you'll soak up all that fresh air and vitamin D from the sun. You'll also get in touch with your surroundings, and maybe learn your way around a park you've never visited or an unfamiliar part of town. In addition, outdoor workouts are free — no gym memberships or class fees to worry about!

To make the most of your outdoor workout:

• Dress for the elements. Wear a hat and jacket if it's cool outside, and no matter what the temperature, wear sunscreen and sunglasses to avoid sun damage.
• Drink plenty of water before you start and after you finish. If you're going to work out for more than 30 minutes, carry a water bottle with you or stop for a drink during the workout.
• Dress in layers, peeling them off as you warm up.
• Wear reflective gear if you exercise before the sun rises or after it sets.
• Bring music — you can carry an iPod with headphones — to keep you pumped up. Or, if you can, bring a friend!

Go on — take your workout on the open road! You'll be glad you did.