Frugal Outdoor Hobbies to Enjoy in the Nice Weather

When the nice weather finally arrives, many of us look for any excuse to get outside to enjoy it. I’ve even been known to mow the lawn every once in a while just for the pleasure of being outdoors. But you don’t have to put yourself to work to enjoy the nice weather.

Finding a new hobby can be an excellent way to get outside. But that doesn’t mean you have to spend a ton of money on a swimming pool or a membership to your local tennis courts. So, if you’re used to spending your afternoons and evenings with Netflix on your couch but want to take advantage of the nice weather while it’s here, take a look at these frugal outdoor hobbies that will help you get outside without breaking your wallet.

Fitness

Every time I buy a gym membership I go in with great intentions. I’m motivated and excited to start working out. Then a few weeks go by and slowly my gym bag begins to collect dust. The terrible music, the crowded treadmills, the bros grunting into the mirror… it all adds up to a bad experience. We lose interest in our hobbies when they stop being fun. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to get fit outdoors that are fun and cheap.

• Run. The simple act of running has been spreading joy since Pheilippides ran from Marathon to Athens to spread the news of victory against the Persians. Once he arrived, however, he supposedly dropped dead. Use that as a reason to start slow and remember to buy a decent pair of running shoes to protect your joints.
• Bike. Cycling is a great workout and a great way to go sightseeing. Your first thought might be “cycling isn’t frugal” but that’s only true if you aren’t willing to hunt down the great deals on Craigslist and at yard sales, of which there will be many this time of year.
• Hike. Odds are there are dozens of parks and trails in your area that you’ve never explored. Throw a sandwich and a water bottle in your bag and go exploring.

Relaxation

If you don’t feel like running a marathon just to get outside there are several other hobbies that can help you expand your level of chill while still working on your tan.

• Meditate. This is truly the master of frugal hobbies in the sense that the only thing you need is yourself. Go out into your yard and the woods, sit or lay down in a comfy position, close your eyes, then notice the sounds and the smells around you.
• Read. Grab your lounge chair and your library card–that’s all you’ll need to keep your brain busy all summer outside.
• Yoga. Even if you don’t want to admit it your body needs to move, at least a little bit. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still be relaxed while doing it. Bring your cell phone or laptop outside and watch one of the many great beginner yoga videos on YouTube.
• Gardening. Not only is gardening frugal, but you’ll actually save money once you start harvesting all the vegetables you’ve grown. Gardening allows you to play in the dirt, learn new things, get outside, and enjoy food you’ve grown yourself. It’s an all-around awesome hobby.