When you live in a state as beautiful as Colorado, exercising in the fresh air isn’t a chore or a burden – it’s a pleasure. Although the climate varies depending on where you live in the state, you can always find gorgeous places to engage in cardio, strength training, yoga, or meditation. With the majestic Rocky Mountains, the sunny summer days, and the snow thick in wintertime, outdoor fitness in Colorado is easy to embrace and adore.

WALKING, RUNNING, & HIKING

Colorado is filled with trails that are perfect for walking or running. For example, be sure to check out the Mesa Trail in Boulder, a 7-mile route that runs along the Flatirons, for a technically challenging workout with a great view. You could also sign up for some running events. To learn about upcoming Colorado races, check out the Colorado Runner event calendar. And for those who prefer hiking, head to Longs Peak, the Canyon Loop Trail, the Arapaho Pass Trail to Lake Dorothy, or one of the many “fourteeners.”

BIKING

On many of the same trails we listed above, you could bike instead of pounding the pavement. Cycling is very popular in Colorado, whether you’re hitting a dedicated trail or biking to work. Thrill-seekers might also try mountain biking, perhaps on the breathtaking Colorado Trail.

ROCK CLIMBING

Rock climbing isn’t for amateurs; you’ll need training, equipment, and skill. However, once you gain the knowledge and muscles needed, rock climbing can help you build upper-body strength, gain endurance, and even boost your brain function. Some of the best places to rock climb in Colorado are the Garden of the Gods, Rocky Mountain National Park, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Rifle Mountain Park, and Castlewood Canyon State Park.

KAYAKING, CANOEING, & RAFTING

If you’d rather hit the water, try kayaking, canoeing, or rafting in Colorado’s many lakes and rivers. Many companies rent out kayaks and canoes, and you can also join commercial whitewater rafting trips. Try kayaking on the calm upper Colorado River, the exciting lower Colorado River, the intermediate Arkansas River, Lake Dillon, or Pueblo Lake.

SKIING & SNOWBOARDING

In winter, head to the mountains for skiing or snowboarding. Although these sports are expensive (requiring skis/snowboards, winter clothing, lift tickets, and more), you can invest in ski or snowboard equipment to use year after year. Some of the most popular ski resorts in Colorado are Aspen, Telluride, Breckinridge, and Keystone.

TEAM SPORTS

You don’t have to exercise alone. If you’d rather workout with friends, try a team sport like tennis, volleyball, soccer, basketball, or softball. Many employers and communities offer intramural sports, and at parks you can find tennis courts, volleyball courts, basketball courts, and fields where you can play softball or ultimate frisbee.

YOGA

Finally, when the weather is nice, why not practice yoga outside? There isn’t a shortage of beautiful scenery in Colorado, so take your pick. Try going to a secluded spot at dawn or dusk, taking in the fresh air and the gorgeous views, and focusing on your flexibility and breathing. You could even combine yoga with another favorite outdoor exercise, like hiking, cycling, or kayaking, performing a few calming Sun Salutations at the end of your cardio session.

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So you know all about the possibilities for outdoor fitness in Colorado, but how can you stay fit when it’s icy, dark, snowy, or storming? To ensure that you never miss a workout, invest in some home exercise equipment. For help, check out Fitness Gallery. We handpick each piece of fitness equipment sold in our stores, so you know that you’re getting high-quality products at a great value.  To learn more, please visit our online store, or stop by our showrooms in Denver (CO) or Highlands Ranch (CO). Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect equipment for your fitness goals.