If you’re trying to achieve weight loss goals, the Winston-Salem, NC, area offers lots of opportunities for boosting your fitness activity. If you need a change of pace from walking your treadmill at home, consider the following healthy activities you can do around town to help you burn calories and get fit.
Hike Pilot Mountain
Hiking is a great way to get exercise while spending some quality time outdoors and enjoying nature. Plus, you’ll get the added benefits of vitamin D, which is crucial for physical and mental well-being. Located about 20 miles from the city, Pilot Mountain attracts many hikers with its trails and great views. The trail along the Yadkin River is a popular route to consider.
Rock Climbing at Hanging Rock State Park
If you’re looking to get some intense activity in, climbing is about as good as it gets. Burn calories while working on your strength and balance by doing some rock climbing at Hanging Rock State Park. Moore’s Wall and Cook’s wall are the park’s primary climbing locations. The views from the top are an added bonus.
Walk or Run Around Salem Lake
The trail that encircles Salem Lake is seven miles and is popular with runners and walkers. The area is quite beautiful and makes for an attractive place to enjoy some cardio. Some people bike the trail, but keep in mind that some parts of the trail are gravel and sand.
Kayak Salem Lake
Instead of walking around the lake, consider getting out onto the water. Kayak rentals are available for paddling the lake. Single and multi-occupant kayaks are available. If you own a kayak, there are lots of places outside of the city to paddle.
Tennis in the Park
Tennis is a great way to elevate your heart rate—and, since tennis is more fun as a group activity you’ll be able to spend time with friends and family! Get together with a friend for friendly weekly tennis matches. Many of Winston-Salem’s parks like Hanes, Little Creek, and Sedge Garden feature tennis courts.
Swimming
Swimming is a terrific way to burn calories while giving all your muscles a workout. While you can join a fitness center with a pool, you can also find affordable swimming options at some of the city’s public pools like Bolton Pool and Mineral Springs.
Community Gardening
Not everyone enjoys conventional methods of working out. If running or aerobics aren’t for you, consider volunteering at Forsyth County community gardens. Gardening is a great way to boost your fitness level. The movements of bending, kneeling, digging, and pulling weeds are sure to help you break a sweat without all the intensity of a traditional workout or exercise.
Yoga
Sign up for yoga classes. While private classes are available around town, be sure to check with the park district for classes in the park or your local community center. Yoga will help you burn calories, enhance your core strength and flexibility, and even de-stress!
Kickboxing Classes
Tired of conventional gym equipment? Take a kickboxing class. Venues like RockBox Winston-Salem offer kickboxing classes for participants of all skill levels. Kickboxing is a great way to boost your confidence levels and meet new people, too.
Playboating on the Dan River
Spice up your fitness plan with some playboating lessons on the Dan River or New and Mayo Rivers. Also known as freestyle canoeing, playboating offers an adrenaline boost as you practice whitewater maneuvers. Consider taking lessons as part of your fitness plan.
Keep these activities in mind as you strive to achieve your weight loss goals. If you’re struggling with weight loss, Blue Sky can help you. Our medical staff can develop a plan based on your unique needs to help you lose weight and live a healthier life. Contact us to learn more or schedule an appointment online today.
