Your backyard should be an extension of your home. It’s a living space that encourages you to spend more time outdoors, soaking up the sun and breathing in the fresh air. However, a lot of people don’t get a lot of use out of their backyards. After all, many hobbies don’t often require people to sit or stand outside.
Those who want to live a more active lifestyle can transform their backyard into a fun and fitness wonderland they will actually use!
There are a ton of benefits that come from exercising outdoors. You will have more energy because you’re getting vitamin D from the sun. Being outside also allows you to connect with nature, which has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health. Finally, you will sleep better at night because natural light will help regulate your body’s internal clock.
All of this is possible with just a few simple additions to your backyard. Here are the stuff you need to do to make your backyard more active:
What You Need
A space for exercise and physical activity is not complete without a few pieces of equipment to enable movement.
First, you need leveled ground. Some people may need to use a mini excavator to remove lumps of earth and create an even surface. From that on, you can decide to grow lush grass all over the area or cover it with concrete.
The equipment you need depends on the kind of exercise you want to do. If you want a gym, you need a weight bench, a treadmill, and an elliptical. If you want to focus on calisthenics, you will need a pull-up bar, some parallel bars, and a sandbox.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to backyard equipment, so think about what you want to do and find something that suits your needs.
Add a Game Area
Those who want to play sports as a way to get daily physical activity. The easiest to set up is a badminton net which you can install by using two posts pounded into the ground and a piece of netting strung between them. You can also purchase a ready-made net like this one.
Volleyball is a little more complicated to set up but definitely worth it for the amount of fun you and your friends will have. The first thing you need is an area that’s at least 16 feet (4.88 m) by 8 feet (2.44 meters). Then, you will need a volleyball net, which can be bought at most sporting goods stores. Finally, you need two poles that are each 8 feet (2.44 meters) tall. Drive them into the ground at the corners of your playing area and string the net between them.
Those who like basketball can set up a hoop in their backyard. All you need is a pole that’s at least 10 feet (3.05 m) tall and a backboard and hoop. The hoop can be attached to the pole with chains or cables.
Create a Play Area for Kids
A backyard is a perfect place for kids to play. It’s a safe place where they can explore and run around without having to worry about cars or strangers. You can create a play area for your kids by adding a sandbox, a tire swing, or some monkey bars.
A sandbox is a great way to keep kids entertained for hours on end. They can build sandcastles, play with toy boats, and do a million other things with sand. You can buy a sandbox that’s already made or make your own by using a few wooden boards and some chicken wire.
A tire swing is a fun way to get kids active. They can swing as high as they want and then jump out to try to catch the tire. All you need is an old tire and a sturdy tree branch.
Monkey bars are perfect for older kids who are looking for a challenge. They can hang from one bar to the next and do all sorts of tricks. You can make your own monkey bars by using some sturdy pipe or you can purchase a set like this one.
Design a Secluded and Serene Are for Yoga
Outdoor yoga is also a great way to get in touch with nature. If you want to set up an area for yoga, all you need is a level surface and some comfortable padding. You can use a yoga mat, a blanket, or even a few towels.
The best place for yoga is in a secluded and peaceful area. Try to find a spot where there are no distractions and where you can focus on your poses. If you have a garden, it’s the perfect place to set up your yoga area.
These are all great ways to turn your backyard into a fitness wonderland. You can do this by adding a few simple pieces of equipment, such as a tire swing, monkey bars, or sandbox. You can also set up an active game area with a volleyball net and a badminton set. Whether you’re looking for something more challenging like a basketball hoop or need some exercise space to work out on the lawn — there are plenty of options available.