Summer is the perfect season to refresh your fitness goals, get outside, and enjoy the energy that comes with longer, sunnier days. Whether you're looking to shake up your routine, build strength, or simply have fun in the fresh air, outdoor fitness challenges are a great way to stay motivated. Here are 10 exciting summer fitness challenges to try that will keep you moving, exploring, and enjoying nature all season long.
1. Bike 100 KM in a Weekend
Explore your local bike paths, country roads, or coastal trails with this endurance challenge. Break it into two 50 km rides or stretch it over three days—either way, it’s a fun way to cover serious ground and see your surroundings in a new light.
Pro Tip: Use a tracking app to chart your route and time, and don’t forget a padded seat and sunscreen!
2. Hike 5 New Trails
Commit to discovering five new hiking trails this summer. Whether they’re in your local area or on your vacation route, this challenge is a great way to stay active and connect with nature.
Pro Tip: Keep a hiking journal and rate each trail for difficulty, scenery, and your favorite moments.
3. Sunrise Yoga Flow for 7 Days
Start your mornings with a 15-30 minute outdoor yoga session. Whether it’s in your backyard, on a dock, or at the beach, connecting breath and movement with nature sets a powerful tone for the day.
Pro Tip: Lay your mat facing the sunrise and wear layers—mornings can still be cool!
4. Paddle Every Weekend
Kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding—pick your favorite water sport and make it your weekend ritual. It’s a great upper body and core workout, and an ideal way to cool down on hot days.
Pro Tip: Explore different lakes and rivers each time to keep the scenery fresh and your spirit adventurous.
5. Cold Lake Dips Challenge
Try cold plunging the natural way—start with a brisk morning dip once a week and see how your body and mind respond. It’s invigorating, mood-boosting, and makes for a great story.
Pro Tip: Always dip safely. Start slowly, never go alone, and bring warm layers for after.
6. 30-Minute Outdoor Moves Challenge
Dedicate 30 minutes every day for a month to outdoor movement. Walking, running, skipping, playing catch, or doing bodyweight circuits—just move outside every day, no matter what.
Pro Tip: Invite a friend or family member to join you to boost accountability and fun.
7. Hill Repeat Hustle
Find a local hill or incline and challenge yourself to do repeat runs or power walks up and down. It builds strength, endurance, and determination.
Pro Tip: Do a short warm-up, then start with 3-5 repeats and build up as you go.
8. Plank + Push-Up Progression
Each week, increase your plank hold time and your daily push-up count. Do it outdoors on your deck or in the park for an extra dose of Vitamin D.
Pro Tip: Mix in variations like side planks or incline push-ups to keep it interesting.
9. The “Unplugged Adventure” Challenge
Choose one day each week to go screen-free and spend time in nature. Whether it’s hiking, swimming, biking, or just laying in the grass, the goal is to connect with your body and surroundings without distraction.
Pro Tip: Leave your phone at home or in airplane mode unless needed for safety.
10. Backyard Bootcamp
Design your own outdoor bootcamp with a mix of cardio, strength, and mobility exercises. Do it solo or invite friends for a fun group workout.
Pro Tip: Use minimal gear—resistance bands, water jugs, or bodyweight exercises can take you far.
Final Thoughts
Fitness doesn't have to happen inside a gym—especially in the summer. With sunshine, fresh air, and Canada’s incredible landscapes as your backdrop, every workout can become an adventure. Whether you're dipping into cold lakes, pedaling through wildflower-lined trails, or powering through a backyard bootcamp, these challenges are designed to help you feel stronger, more grounded, and more alive.