Get Creative in Calgary

It isn't difficult to get stuck in your current workout routine. The familiarity of your neighbourhood gym can sometimes become a hindrance to your long term fitness goals.

Weight loss or muscle plateau can occur for many reasons, one of which may be adaptation to your regular type of exercise. Once our body gets used to a certain type of activity, it is no longer challenged and may reach progress stasis. The easiest way to avoid this is to mix it up and try something new that will test your body and force it to work harder during your activity.

Lucky for us living in Calgary, we've got an endless playground all around us that can inject some excitement in to your fitness habits! 

Photo by michiganseagrant

Water sports may not be the first thing that comes to mind when brainstorming sports in Calgary, but there is a wealth of options for those who are willing to explore what water can offer in terms of fitness.

Whether you want to try kayaking, stand up paddling, or canoeing, Undercurrents is a great place to start. By staffing water enthusiasts and offering endless gear, they have the expertise you may need to start up a new water sport. They also offer individual or group lessons for any experience level. 

Another great place to check out is the University of Calgary Outdoor Centre. They have affordable rentals for not only water sports, but almost any outdoor sport! 

You will almost always find gear available for climbing, biking, hiking, and even tents for camping. Book ahead to make sure you get the gear you want! 

Photo by Shifrah Gadamsetti

The great thing about U of C Outdoor Centre is that they offer courses to enhance your outdoor fitness experience or teach you a new skill, and rentals are almost always included in the affordable lesson price. 

Being so close to the mountains offers up many opportunities for exhilarating fitness challenges throughout the whole year. Particularly in summer, there are endless ways to get outside and push your body. One of my personal favourites is taking a day trip to a high ropes course outside the city. Being in the mountains and facing some of your fears while getting a serious workout can be one of the best things you do for your physical and mental health. The challenge will be very rewarding!

One of my favourite places is Rocky Mountain Ropes Course. If you`re looking for a real fitness adventure that`s close to home, you will not be disappointed. 

Have you changed up your fitness routine lately? Challenge yourself to one of these outdoor adventures this summer and let me know what your favourite was in a comment below!