5 Inspiring Places to Workout – Beyond the Gym

The gym is functional, but it can get monotonous. For some, the gym’s energy is motivating, while for others, it becomes a chore—making it easy to skip workouts entirely. A change of scenery may be exactly what you need to re-energize your fitness routine.

At our fitness retreat, we love taking workouts outdoors and into fresh, inspiring spaces. Whether you’re doing cardio, strength training, or stretching, switching up your environment can make a huge difference in your motivation and enjoyment. Here are five amazing places to try your next workout:

1. Beach

The ocean view and soft sand make the beach a perfect workout space. Sand adds cushion to your joints and increases the challenge, allowing you to burn up to 50% more calories during a power walk or run. Yoga, bodyweight circuits, or simple stretches are also ideal here.

2. Mountains

Working out in the mountains challenges your endurance with varied terrain and higher altitudes. Hiking, mountain biking, yoga, and outdoor bodyweight workouts benefit from the fresh air, natural scenery, and invigorating environment—even if it’s just a field or yard with a view.

3. Garden

The calm and serenity of a garden is perfect for yoga, Pilates, meditation, or gentle stretching. Take a few deep breaths, soak in the colors and aromas of flowers, and let stress melt away as you focus on your body and mind.

4. Pool

Pools offer low-impact workouts with the added benefit of resistance from the water. Jumping jacks, squats, lunges, and running in the water are all joint-friendly options. For those who love water, swim laps or tread water for a cardio boost. Finish with a refreshing dip!

5. City View

Sometimes urban energy is just the motivation you need. Rooftops, parks, or spaces with city views make workouts feel dynamic. Jog or power walk while enjoying architecture, colors, and the rhythm of the city—it’s a great way to distract your mind while moving your body.

Take Your Workout Anywhere – Bodyweight Circuit

Want to combine a new environment with an effective workout? This 20-minute bodyweight circuit can be done anywhere, no equipment needed. Repeat the circuit 2-3 times depending on your fitness level.

Warm-Up (3-5 minutes)

Jumping jacks – 1 min
High knees – 1 min
Arm circles & torso twists – 1 min

Circuit (45 seconds per exercise, 15 seconds rest)

Squats – Chest up, feet shoulder-width apart.
Push-Ups – Modify on knees if needed.
Walking Lunges – Step forward alternately; can do in place if space is tight.
Plank to Shoulder Tap – Stabilize hips while tapping shoulders.
Mountain Climbers – Maintain steady pace.
Side-Lying Leg Lifts – 45 seconds per side for glutes and outer thighs.

Cool Down (3-5 minutes)

Forward fold – 1 min
Seated hamstring stretch – 1 min per leg
Shoulder stretch & deep breaths – 1 min

💡 Pro Tip: Adapt your workout to your surroundings! Step onto a bench for elevated push-ups, lunge up a hill, or plank on a yoga mat in a garden. Your environment can make even a short workout feel new and exciting.

Why Mix Up Your Workout Spaces?

Variety keeps fitness fresh and helps prevent burnout. Even switching locations once a week can reignite motivation and make exercise feel less like a routine and more like an experience. Combine it with this portable bodyweight circuit, and you have a simple, fun, and effective way to stay active anywhere.