Outdoor Activity
There is still time to enjoy the outdoors this summer. The combination of being outdoors in nature and being physical active has shown to provide benefit to one’s health and wellbeing. Spending time outdoors while being active provides opportunity to connect with one’s self as well as nature. The fresh air, sunlight (Vitamin D), and the activity will provide many positive benefits simultaneously. Being active outdoors can help with relieving stress, improving mood, relaxing, or helping to increase your weekly physical activity. Check out these different outdoor activities and the total amount of calories burned in 30 minutes. Not only can you have fun and enjoy the outdoors; you will burn calories too.
Frisbee: 90-133
Kayaking: 150-222
Paddle boarding: 150-210
Water aerobics: 175-275
Swimming: 300 - 400
Hiking: 180 - 260
Tennis: 210-310
Badminton: 135-200
Bicycling (12-13.9 mph): 240-355
Water skiing: 180-266
*Calorie amounts vary based on weight and length of activity.
References
Eigenschenk B, Thomann A, McClure M, et al. Benefits of Outdoor Sports for Society. A Systematic Literature Review and Reflections on Evidence. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2019;16(6):937. Published 2019 Mar 15. doi:10.3390/ijerph16060937 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6466442/
Harvard Health https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-weight-loss/calories-burned-in-30-minutes-of-leisure-and-routine-activities
Ali Schulze is the Director of Healthy Living for the YMCA of Greater Dayton. Interested in learning more? See our Nutrition page.