Outdoor exercise can be a great way to add variety to your routine, enjoy some fresh air and find new ways to stay active. From outdoor fitness classes to running, padel and strength training, there are options for different goals and fitness levels.
Some of the best outdoor fitness classes and activities include track running, padel and outdoor gym training. The right choice depends on whether you want to improve cardio, build strength, enjoy a social sport or follow a structured class.
At Bluecoat Sports, you can train on our 400m athletics track, play padel on our covered outdoor courts or head to The Fitness Yard for a workout using state-of-the-art fitness equipment.
Explore our class timetable and find out more about becoming a Bluecoat Sports member today.
Why choose outdoor fitness?
- Adds variety to your regular fitness routine
- Enjoy fresh air and a change of environment while you train
- Supports cardio, strength, coordination and endurance
Moving your workout outdoors can be a simple way to add more variety to your fitness routine. Whether you’re running, strength training or joining an outdoor exercise class, the change of environment can make your usual workout feel different while still helping you work towards the same fitness goals.
Outdoor fitness also gives you plenty of flexibility. You might use the track for a steady run one day, complete a strength-training session in an outdoor gym later in the week, or play a game of padel when you want something more social and competitive.
It can also complement indoor training rather than replace it. Combining outdoor exercise with gym sessions, swimming or other fitness classes can help you create a more varied weekly routine and work on different areas of fitness, including cardio, strength, coordination and endurance.
The best outdoor fitness classes and sports
The best outdoor activity depends on what you want from your workout. Some people prefer the structure of a running session, while others are more motivated by group exercise or a competitive sport.
Running and track workouts
Track training is a flexible way to improve cardiovascular fitness, endurance and running performance while exercising outdoors. As the distance is clearly measured, it is easy to plan a session around your current fitness level and gradually increase your distance, pace or intensity over time.
Beginners might start with a brisk walk, a run-walk session or a few steady laps. As your fitness improves, you can build up the distance, increase your pace or introduce short bursts of faster running.
More experienced runners can use a track for structured interval sessions, tempo running and sprint work. For example, you could alternate a faster 200m effort with an easier 200m recovery, or complete repeated laps at a consistent pace.
Is track right for you?
Track sessions can be a good choice if you:
- Want to improve cardio and endurance
- Prefer exercising independently
- Are training towards a running event
- Want an alternative to treadmill running
- Like having clear distances and progress to measure
If you’re preparing for a running event, read our guide to training for your first 5K, or discover more ways to boost your endurance with track workouts.
The Bluecoat Sports athletics track is a six-lane all-weather track. Members can use it as part of their membership, while non-members can book sessions on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Padel
Padel is a social outdoor sport that combines cardio, coordination and quick reactions in a fast-paced game. Usually played as doubles on an enclosed court, it involves frequent changes of direction and short bursts of movement, helping you stay active while focusing on the game.
It’s also relatively easy to pick up, even if you have limited racket-sport experience. As your confidence and ability improve, matches can become faster and more competitive, adding an extra challenge.
Is padel right for you?
Padel may suit you if you:
- Prefer exercising with other people
- Enjoy competitive or game-based fitness
- Want to improve coordination and reactions
- Are looking for an alternative to a standard gym workout
- Want an activity you can play with friends or family
Find out more about our padel facilities and read our ultimate guide to padel if you’re new to the sport. You can also book on our Intro to Padel class, or our Mix-In Social Padel sessions via MATCHi.
Outdoor gym classes
If you want a structured workout that combines strength, cardio and functional fitness, outdoor gym classes are a great option.
At Bluecoat Sports, group classes in The Fitness Yard, such as Bootcamp, Boxfit, Kettlebells and HIIT, can combine weights, bodyweight exercises and short bursts of higher-intensity activity, with instructors helping you work at a level that suits your fitness.
The group setting can also provide extra motivation, support and engagement among attendees, while The Fitness Yard is covered during winter, helping outdoor sessions continue when the weather is less predictable.
You can also use the outdoor gym independently as part of your own workout, or train with a personal trainer if you prefer more individual guidance.
Are outdoor exercise classes right for you?
Outdoor gym classes can suit you if you:
- Want to combine strength, cardio and conditioning
- Prefer instructor-led workouts
- Enjoy exercising as part of a group
- Want more variety in your fitness routine
- Benefit from extra guidance and motivation
Learn more about The Fitness Yard outdoor gym and what to expect.
How to choose the best outdoor fitness activity for you
There is no single best outdoor fitness class or sport for everyone. The right option depends on what you enjoy, what you want to improve and how you like to exercise.
- Choose track training if your main focus is cardio, running or measurable progress.
- Try padel if you want a social sport with plenty of movement and a competitive element.
- Head to the outdoor gym if your priorities include strength training, functional fitness or a HIIT workout.
- Choose outdoor fitness classes if you prefer a planned session with an instructor and group support.
You can also mix activities across the week. For example, complete one strength session at The Fitness Yard, play padel with friends, and use the track for a steady run or an interval workout.
Combining indoor and outdoor exercise
You don’t need to choose between indoor and outdoor exercise. Combining both can add variety and make it easier to adapt your routine around your goals, schedule and the weather.
You might use the indoor gym for weights, head to The Fitness Yard for functional training, use the track for cardio and play padel at the weekend. Swimming or other fitness classes can add even more variety.
Remember to include recovery time and stretching between harder sessions. Nutrition, sleep and stress management also form part of the bigger picture when you are trying to train consistently.
Outdoor workouts beyond the gym
You don’t always need specialist equipment to exercise outdoors. Local parks, paths and open spaces can also give you plenty of ways to stay active.
Walking, jogging and cycling are simple options, while bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges and press-ups can be combined into a short outdoor workout.
These activities can be especially useful during the summer or on days when you want a change from your usual gym routine.
Summary
The best outdoor fitness classes and sports are the ones that match your goals, fitness level, and how you enjoy exercising.
Track workouts can help improve cardio and endurance, padel offers a social and competitive way to stay active, and outdoor gym classes can combine strength, conditioning and functional fitness.
You can also mix outdoor activities with indoor training, swimming or simpler options such as walking and bodyweight workouts. The key is to create a varied routine that feels fun, manageable and easy to maintain.
Become a member of Bluecoat Sports
If you want more choice in how you train, becoming a Bluecoat Sports member gives you access to a wide range of facilities in a welcoming environment with a friendly community.
Whether you’re a beginner planning your first session or looking for new ways to challenge your fitness, our facilities and team can support you.
Contact reception on 01403 247572 to find out more.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best outdoor exercises for fitness?
The best outdoor exercises are those that match your goals and fitness level. Walking, running, cycling, bodyweight workouts, outdoor gym sessions and fitness classes can all help improve cardio, strength and overall fitness.
Is working out outside better than going to the gym?
Neither is automatically better. Outdoor exercise can provide fresh air, variety and a different environment, while indoor gyms offer controlled conditions and a wide range of equipment. Many people benefit from mixing indoor and outdoor training across the week.
Can beginners use an outdoor gym?
Yes. Beginners can use an outdoor gym, but it is important to choose exercises and weights that suit your current fitness level. Start with simple movements, focus on good form and ask an instructor for guidance if you’re unsure how to use any equipment.
