Outdoor Exercise: What Gets Us Moving

When it comes to getting active outside, people tend to stick with what feels good and what fits their lifestyle. Here’s how the Ipsos iSay community* ranked their favorite outdoor workouts. 

Walking 

Nearly half of the respondents (46%) chose walking as their go-to outdoor exercise. It’s easy on the joints, requires no special equipment, and can be done just about anywhere, from quiet neighborhood paths to bustling urban sidewalks. For many, it’s not just movement, but mental clarity as well. 

Swimming 

Coming in next with 15%, swimming is a favorite among those who want a low-impact, full-body workout. Whether it’s laps at a local pool or a dip in the lake during summer, swimming offers a cooling and effective way to stay active. 

Hiking 

For 13% of respondents, hiking is the ideal way to get a workout while soaking in the sights. With trails that range from easy to rugged, it’s a way to challenge your body while connecting deeply with nature. 

Cycling 

Cycling earned the top spot for 8% of participants. It appeals to those who crave the feeling of speed, distance, and freedom on two wheels. It’s a solid cardio choice with the added bonus of being easier on your knees than running. 

Running or Jogging 

While not everyone’s first pick, running or jogging still inspires 7% of the community. It’s straightforward, fast-paced, and effective, especially for those chasing endurance goals or a post-run high. 

When asked what they love most about outdoor workouts, just over two-thirds of them (76%) pointed to one thing: enjoying fresh air and nature. And it’s no surprise. Stepping outside for even a short walk can offer a mental reset that few indoor workouts can match. Spending time in nature doesn’t just feel good. It’s also linked to a range of physical and mental health benefits, from reduced stress to improved mood. 

This connection between nature and well-being ties into broader conversations about mental health. For example, studies exploring who feels stress in America the most show that regular movement and time outdoors can help alleviate emotional pressure. Outdoor exercise thus becomes a powerful tool in managing modern-day stress. 

Another 16% of respondents said the changing scenery is what keeps them coming back.  

For those tired of treadmills and four walls, outdoor fitness offers a sense of discovery. Every new park bench or trail can turn into a dip station or a scenic pause in your workout routine. This “green exercise” brings variety to your movement and a refreshing sense of freedom. 

For many, outdoor activities also help boost overall health without the need for fancy equipment. Whether you're hiking up hills, doing bodyweight exercises in a local park, or chasing cardio fitness on a bike path, outdoor workouts offer a full-body experience that aligns with long-term fitness goals. And let’s face it. Fresh air and sunshine can do more for your motivation than any fluorescent-lit gym. 

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Even the best outdoor workout plans can run into obstacles. From unpredictable conditions to daily life demands, here’s what’s making it harder for people to stay active outside. 

When Weather Doesn’t Cooperate 

For 58% of respondents, weather is the number one roadblock. Whether it’s heat waves, sudden downpours, or icy sidewalks, unpredictable weather can derail even the best outdoor workout ideas.  

While outdoor workouts offer many benefits, including exposure to natural light and cardio exercise opportunities, proper gear becomes essential. Without it, even the best outdoor workouts can turn uncomfortable or unsafe, especially when dealing with heat exhaustion or poor air quality. 

Running Out of Time 

Time is another common barrier. About 17% of people say that fitting outdoor exercise into their busy schedule just isn’t easy.  

When work, family, and other commitments stack up, it can be tough to carve out even five minutes of outdoor exercise. Still, finding small windows for activity, whether it's walking around the track during lunch or doing strength training exercises in a nearby park, can bring significant health benefits. 

Interestingly, for those focused on better time and health management, there’s a growing interest in a new take on weight loss treatments. This evolving perspective reflects a shift toward sustainable, holistic approaches, including outdoor movement as part of long-term wellness strategies. 

Concerns About Safety or Health 

Safety or personal health concerns are top of mind for 12% of respondents. For some, outdoor cardio in unfamiliar areas raises anxiety. For others, underlying health conditions limit the types of exercises they can safely do outside.  

It’s why customizing your fitness journey, by choosing low-impact movements or using simple fitness equipment like resistance bands, can help more people enjoy the benefits of outdoor exercise without added risk. 

Think about what moves you (literally). Are you a walker, swimmer, or hiker? Or maybe you're just looking to break through a few common obstacles like unpredictable weather or packed schedules. 

Let’s revisit our Questions of the Day: 

• What is your favorite type of outdoor exercise? 
• What’s the best part about exercising outdoors? 
• What’s the biggest challenge when trying to exercise outdoors? 

Outdoor exercise isn’t just about performance. It’s more about being present in the moment and cultivating healthy lifestyle habits. Regardless of whether it’s a stroll around the block or a hike up a mountain, it’s about reconnecting with nature, your body, and the world around you. 

*These results represent Ipsos iSay web visitors and may not reflect the views of the general population.