Take Your Workout Outdoors: Fun Ways To Burn Fat This Fall

Here are four feel-good fall activities that also benefit your health.

1. RAKING LEAVES

Not only does this upper-body workout use arms, shoulders, and torso to get the job done, it also usually requires a moderate intensity level. CALORIES BURNED: A 125-pound person will burn 120 calories in thirty minutes; a 155-pound person will work off slightly more (149 calories). TIP: Increase your workout by bagging the leaves: Squatting is great for toning the lower body and can burn right around the same amount of calories as raking.

2. PICKING APPLES OR PUMPKINS

Philadelphia has enough nearby fruit farms to last all fall. Walking around the orchard and climbing ladders provides light cardio work, while reaching for apples requires the strength and flexibility of Pilates. Meanwhile, carrying pumpkins will test your abs, glutes, and quads. CALORIES BURNED: In one hour, a 150-pound person will burn 200 calories. TIP: Use the fruits of your labor for healthy recipes like maple-cinnamon applesauce and pumpkin and squash chili.

3. BIKE RIDES

Radiant fall foliage plus cool-and-comfy temperatures make for an ideal time to take the bike out for a road adventure. An excellent source of cardio, cycling can also sculpt the legs and upper body — especially when pedaling up hills and out of the saddle. CALORIES BURNED: A 130-pound woman cycling at 15 mph burns 10 calories per minute. TIP: Always, always practice safe cycling habits.

4. HIKING

Hiking engages practically every muscle, but especially the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. (Add a backpack and you’ll really employ your core and upper-body muscles.) CALORIES BURNED: On average, a female weighing 163 pounds will burn around 555 calories for an hour of hiking. TIP: Take advantage of some of the most memorable trails in the region.

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Sponsor content is created for IBX by Philadelphia magazine as a marketing collaboration with IBX. This material is intended for reference and information only and should not be used in place of advice from a doctor or suitable qualified healthcare professional.