Okay, if you read last month’s blog about how to Get Ready for the Outdoors: Joint-Friendly Activities for the Warmer Months, you should be well on your way and ready to spice things up a bit. So here we go—let’s make this spring the one where you try something new and keep your joints feeling great while you do it! 🌷
If you live near a body of water, this is one you’ve got to try. Stand-up paddleboarding is surprisingly easy on the joints because of the gentle motion involved. Plus, it engages your core and works your legs without being too harsh on your knees or hips. You’ll feel strong and relaxed as you glide along the water.
Don’t like the idea of heavy impact on your joints? Water aerobics is a fantastic alternative! The buoyancy of water reduces the stress on your joints while still providing a good workout. Whether you’re doing leg lifts, water jogging, or other gentle moves, the water supports your body, making it easier to move and stretch without pain.
Okay, if you’ve never tried frisbee golf, it’s time to grab a frisbee and get outside! Imagine regular golf, but with a frisbee instead of a ball—plus, you’re aiming for baskets, not holes.
It’s low-impact, so it’s easy on the joints, but still gets you moving and having fun. Sure, it might leave you a little sore (because, hey, it’s still a workout), but it’s all about keeping those joints moving and enjoying the outdoors. And trust me, the competition can get pretty intense—it’s surprising how serious things can get with a frisbee! 😄
Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you have to dive around in the sand like a pro athlete. Beach volleyball is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and stay active without too much impact on your joints. The soft sand helps cushion the fall, and if you play at a relaxed pace, it can be a great way to work your upper and lower body without the strain.
If you’ve never tried geocaching, it’s like a real-life treasure hunt! I’ve gotten into it a few times, and it’s such a fun way to explore the outdoors. All you need is your phone and a geocaching app. The app shows you nearby “caches” (hidden treasures) that others have left behind, and your mission is to find them by following clues and coordinates. It gets you moving through trails, parks, and all sorts of places—perfect for staying active while discovering new spots! It’s a great way to get those joints working, and I promise it’ll make you feel like a kid again, searching for that hidden prize. 😎
There’s no shortage of ways to stay active this spring without pushing your joints too hard. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and get moving!
Brandon
**Always check with your healthcare provider before trying new activities.