A lot of people dream of moving from the hustle and bustle of the city to a more rural area where they can enjoy a slower pace of life. But one of the concerns that often holds people back from making this move is fear that their lifestyle will suffer. They worry that there won’t be as many opportunities to be active and that it will be harder to stay in shape.
However, this doesn’t have to be the case! A study found that living in rural areas can significantly lower stress levels. Greener pastures and opportunities abound for getting away from the hustle of everyday life. Imagine opening your front door and taking a deep breath of fresh air while surrounded by peace – ah, bliss!
So if you’re considering a move to the country, here are ways to maintain an active lifestyle:
Get Involved in Your Community
One way to meet new people and stay active when you move to a rural area is to get involved in your community. There are likely plenty of organizations and clubs you can join, such as the local sports team, the book club, or even a group that gets together for weekly walks. Getting involved in your community ensures you stay active and meet new people.
You can develop nutrition and exercise initiatives by working with the local government. This will give you a sense of accomplishment while also benefiting your community. It’s a perfect way to create lasting relationships and exercise simultaneously! You can also involve children in these activities, which will teach them the importance of an active lifestyle at a young age.
Volunteering will also help you familiarize yourself with the local area while gaining a sense of purpose and new friends. You can volunteer in schools, hospitals, animal shelters, environmental cleanups, and soup kitchens.
Take Advantage of the Great Outdoors
One of the best things about living in a rural area is being surrounded by nature. And what better way to get some exercise than by taking advantage of all the great outdoors? If you’re lucky enough to live in a rural area with lots of natural beauty, make use of it! Go for hikes, bike rides, or even just walks around your neighborhood. Enjoying the scenery is a great way to stay active while also taking in some fresh air.
If you have the means or the budget, why not try investing in a land? This way, you can have your little piece of paradise to enjoy whenever you want. Not only is it a great investment, but it’s also nice to get some exercise. You can clear the land to build your dream home or just use it for weekend getaways. Either way, it makes you stay active while enjoying the great outdoors. You can also use this for other community initiatives, such as starting a community garden.
Make Use of Your Natural Surroundings
If you live in a rural area, chances are you’re lucky enough to have some natural surroundings that you can take advantage of. Whether it’s a river, a lake, or even just a swimming hole, make use of it! Swimming keeps you active and fit, and it’s also a lot of fun. If you don’t know how to swim, now is a great time to learn. It’s never too late to start!
Another fun activity in a rural area is to take up fishing. It’s a great way to relax while also getting some exercise. Not to mention that you can use what you catch for dinner! Walking around uneven terrain and casting your line can also be a great workout. You can also try other activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and even just exploring your surroundings on foot.
Join a Gym or Fitness Class
Just because you live in a rural area doesn’t mean you don’t have access to gyms or fitness classes. There are likely plenty of options available if you look around. Joining a gym or taking a fitness class is another way to get the exercise you need while socializing with others with similar interests.
A fitness class could involve anything from yoga to kickboxing, and there’s sure to be something that interests you. If you’re unsure where to start, check with your local community center or recreation department. They should have plenty of information on what’s available in your area. Gyms are also a great option for staying active in a rural area. Many gyms offer a wide variety of exercise equipment and classes, so you’re sure to find something that interests you.
Are You Ready for the Rural Life?
Staying active when you move from an urban area to a rural one doesn’t have to be difficult. There are plenty of ways to find opportunities for physical activity, whether through getting involved in your community, using your natural surroundings, or joining a gym or fitness class. So don’t let the fear of being less active hold you back from making your dreams of living in the country come true!
