Top-Rated Outdoor Workouts in Lakewood, CO

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Staying active is essential for maintaining good health, and outdoor workouts offer a refreshing alternative to indoor routines. Lakewood, CO, boasts a variety of scenic spots perfect for diverse fitness activities. Whether you're a resident or visiting the Denver gym scene, here are five of the best outdoor workouts to elevate your fitness journey in Lakewood.

Benefits of Outdoor Workouts

Outdoor workouts offer numerous benefits, including exposure to fresh air and sunlight, which can enhance your mood and boost vitamin D levels. Research indicates that exercising outdoors can lead to improved mental well-being, reduced stress, and increased motivation compared to indoor workouts. Studies also show that green spaces and natural environments promote greater adherence to fitness routines. Different training styles like HIIT and circuit training are efficient for burning calories, improving cardiovascular health, and building strength. Workouts outside also promotes mental clarity and reduces stress, contributing to overall well-being.

A key advantage of outdoor workouts is the variety of settings available, which can make exercise more enjoyable and less monotonous. Additionally, the uneven terrain and natural obstacles found in parks and trails can enhance your workout by engaging different muscle groups and improving balance and coordination. Whether you're running on a trail, climbing stairs at an amphitheater, or performing yoga by a lake, the natural surroundings provide a dynamic and stimulating environment that can enhance your overall fitness experience.

1. Trail Running at Bear Creek Lake Park

Bear Creek Lake Park is a gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering miles of trails perfect for running. The park's terrain ranges from flat, easy paths to challenging hills, providing options for all fitness levels. Trail running here not only improves cardiovascular health but also strengthens your legs and core as you navigate the varied terrain. The serene environment, with views of Bear Creek and the surrounding foothills, adds to the workout's appeal, making it a favorite spot for many in the Lakewood workout community.

2. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) at Belmar Park

Belmar Park is an ideal location for High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), a workout style that alternates short bursts of intense exercise with periods of rest or lower-intensity exercise. HIIT workouts are known for their efficiency in burning calories and improving cardiovascular fitness. Here's a 40-minute HIIT workout you can try:

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Warm-Up (5 minutes): Jog around the park or do dynamic stretches.

HIIT Circuit (30 minutes):

• Sprints (1 minute): Run as fast as you can.
• Rest (1 minute): Walk or slow jog.
• Jumping Jacks (1 minute): High-intensity.
• Rest (1 minute): Walk or slow jog.
• Burpees (1 minute): Maximum effort.
• Rest (1 minute): Walk or slow jog.
• Push-Ups (1 minute): As many as possible.
• Rest (1 minute): Walk or slow jog.
• Repeat this circuit five times.

Cool Down (5 minutes): Walk and stretch.

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3. Stair Workouts at Red Rocks Amphitheater

A short drive from Lakewood, the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater offers one of the most unique workout settings. The amphitheaters massive stone steps are perfect for a challenging stair workout, which boosts your cardiovascular endurance and sculpts your legs. Here’s a 40-minute stair workout:

Warm-Up (5 minutes): Light jog around the base.

Stair Circuit (30 minutes):

• Run Up and Down the Steps (5 minutes): Steady pace.
• Step-Ups (2 minutes): Alternate legs.
• Rest (1 minute): Walk or slow jog.
• Lunges (2 minutes): Walking lunges on steps.
• Rest (1 minute): Walk or slow jog.
• Repeat this circuit four times.

Cool Down (5 minutes): Walk and stretch.

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4. Yoga at Kendrick Lake Park

For those seeking a more mindful and restorative workout, Kendrick Lake Park offers a tranquil setting perfect for yoga. The park’s lush lawns and serene lake create a peaceful atmosphere ideal for practicing yoga poses and meditation. Outdoor yoga not only enhances flexibility and strength but also connects you with nature, reducing stress and promoting overall well-being. A 60-minute yoga session here can significantly improve your physical and mental health.

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5. Circuit Training at Green Mountain

Green Mountain provides a versatile environment for circuit training, combining cardio and strength exercises. Circuit training helps improve overall fitness by engaging different muscle groups and maintaining a high heart rate. Here’s a 40-minute circuit training workout:

Warm-Up (5 minutes): Hike a gentle incline.

Circuit (30 minutes):

• Run or Hike (5 minutes): At a brisk pace.
• Bodyweight Squats (1 minute): As many as possible.
• Rest (1 minute): Walk or slow jog.
• Push-Ups (1 minute): As many as possible.
• Rest (1 minute): Walk or slow jog.
• Walking Lunges (1 minute): Along the trail.
• Rest (1 minute): Walk or slow jog.
• Repeat this circuit four times.

Cool Down (5 minutes): Walk and stretch.

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Conclusion

Lakewood, CO, and its surrounding areas offer an abundance of opportunities for invigorating outdoor workouts. From the challenging trails of Bear Creek Lake Park to the iconic steps of Red Rocks Amphitheater, there’s something for every fitness enthusiast. Embracing these outdoor workouts not only diversifies your fitness routine but also allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. So, lace up your sneakers, step out of the Denver gym comfort zone, and explore the best outdoor workouts Lakewood has to offer. Your body and mind will thank you.

By integrating these locations and activities into your fitness regimen, you can stay active, motivated, and engaged with the vibrant outdoor fitness culture in Lakewood. Whether you're aiming for intense cardio sessions, strength training, or a peaceful yoga practice, these spots provide the perfect setting to achieve your fitness goals while enjoying the great outdoors.