Spring Into Movement: Outdoor Fitness That Feels Like a Breath of Fresh Air
View of San Luis Obispo in spring from Bishop Peak Trail
Spring is nature’s version of a reset button — longer days, sunnier skies, and the kind of fresh air that makes you want to toss your to-do list and just move. And after a winter of hibernating (aka cozy Netflix marathons and couch nesting), your body is likely itching for some sunshine and motion.
The good news? You don’t have to overhaul your routine. Just bring it outside. Moving outdoors isn't just about logging steps — it boosts your vitamin D, helps your nervous system chill out (literally turning down that fight-or-flight), and improves sleep. Plus, it's free therapy via sunshine and birdsong.
As your pale-skinned, fitness fairy godmother, I’m here to remind you: wear your sunscreen and your supportive shoes. Let’s move with joy — and maybe a little dirt on our hands.
We have to move our bodies every single day, right? Yes, really, you do, and I promise it’ll help make everything else in your life better.
Easy & Energizing Ways to Move More Outside
☀️ Take It Outside
Digging at the beach is the perfect spring activity, even if you need wetsuits
Can you take your movement time outside? After winter, the sunshine and fresh air are calling for you to get outside. I've been riding my bike to run all the errands lately. Whether it’s simply walking outside, taking longer hikes, bike rides, doing yoga in the park, running, or bodyweight exercises, take advantage of the ability to be outside and drink in that fresh air.
🚶♀️ Walk Like You Mean It
Walking is underrated magic. Can you walk while taking a meeting? Walk to the store? Walk just to walk? Bonus points for grass under your feet — grounding is real, and your nervous system will thank you.
Have more time? Visit and explore local parks and trails to enjoy the fresh air and blooming flowers. Connecting with the earth, touching a tree, walking barefoot in grass, or sitting in the sun can help restore balance and refresh the mind. I love walking on the grass feeling the different crenelations on my feet.
I recently hiked a trail I don’t do often at Montana de Oro State Park
🌳 Explore Nature Trails
Visit your local parks, hike new trails, or just wander somewhere green. Breathe deep. Look at blooming things. Let nature be your co-pilot.
🧘♀️ Move + Meditate
Yoga in the park, bodyweight workouts in your backyard, or simply stretching under a tree — outdoor movement doesn't need equipment or rules. Just space to breathe and be.
My succulents had a flower baby this spring!
🌱 Dig Into Gardening
Gardening is sneaky movement. Digging, planting, and hauling pots all count as functional fitness. I’ve got a ragtag group of rescued succulents who are thriving (despite my occasional neglect and my cat’s attempts to turn their soil into a personal litter box).
🔥 Kick It Up a Notch
Feeling the spring zing? Go harder. Add some brisk walking, bike intervals, dance parties, or heavier weights to your week. I’m personally lifting heavier these days to support my perimenopause symptoms — and so far, so good!
💑 Share the Love
Movement is sweeter with friends or family. Walk-and-talk dates, errand strolls, or weekend hikes are my favorite way to connect (and sneak in steps).
♻️ Commute Green
Can you trade your car ride for a walk or bike trip? Or dance while you clean? Even parking farther from the store entrance adds up. More movement = more good vibes.
Ready to Move?
Spring is the season of energy, renewal, and re-connection. Whether you're digging in the dirt, walking to grab a coffee, or trying a new outdoor workout, the important thing is to keep it joyful and simple. Movement doesn’t have to be perfect — it just has to happen.
⬇️ Drop your favorite spring movement emoji in the comments!
🏋️ 🚲 🚶♀️ 🌱 ☀️ 💃
See you out there,
Rox 🌸