Let’s face it: no matter how much fun we try to make a treadmill or stationary bike session, it can get pretty boring to be stuck in one space for the duration of your workout. On the other hand, working out in the outdoors around Santa Fe is a great way to hit the refresh button. You’ll have the health advantages of getting a little vitamin D and fresh air, and will enjoy the mental stimulation of taking in the new scenery.
Here are a few outdoor workout ideas for you to try.
Join a Sports League
Head over to Fort Marcy Recreation Complex and join one of their sports leagues. It’s a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather, meet new friends, and also get in a good workout. They’ve got most of the major sports covered, so it’s likely you’ll find something of interest there.
Enjoy a Game of Tennis
The city of Santa Fe is currently working on repairing and resurfacing the public tennis courts at Herb Martinez, Larragoite, Salvador Perez, Ron Shirley/Alto, and Atalaya parks, which means you’ll soon have plenty of options for playing outdoor tennis. In the meantime, head over to Shellaberger Tennis Center. Though they are most famous for their impeccable indoor courts, they also have an outdoor stadium court which is a perfect place to spend an afternoon playing tennis with a friend.
Pedal Through the Mountains
In the foothills of the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains, you’ll find the Dale Ball Trails, a 25-mile natural surface network for hikers and bicyclists. You can make your journey as long or as short as you like, depending on which trails you choose to follow and how far you decide to go. These trails are good for beginners, with some areas that are more intermediate.
Take a Hike
Tie up your boots and head out to the Chamisa Trail, a favorite destination for locals who love hiking. It’s surrounded by beautiful aspens and features views of meadows and mountain streams. This 4.5-mile trail is listed as “easy,” though it does gain in elevation as you go, which means you’ll have a chance to get your heart rate up.
Have fun in the fresh air and follow the Capitol Flats blog for more ideas on how to rev up and refresh your workouts.