Pruning: This may not seem like a tough workout, but you can burn a lot of calories when you’re up a ladder reaching hard to reach branches. It helps exercise your flexibility and strengthen your joints while your at it.
Mowing the lawn: While many of us might have an electric lawnmower, you can probably get a stronger workout from a manual lawnmower, but if you don’t have one, it’s o.k. Concentrate on the movement of your arms and on how you take strides because it can help you build your upper body strength and you can also get your cardio as well.
One of the things we recommend while you’re doing these activities is to pace yourself. Gardening can be a great workout alternative, so make sure you take your time, concentrate on your breathing and use both arms. Many of us are right-handed, but to get the most out of your workout, make sure you change hands/arms. Go the extra mile and do multiple trips if you’re planting plants. Carrying bags of soil and moving things around in the garden can also add to your workout.
Many people find gardening therapeutic, especially because you know your hard work will pay off in a couple of weeks or months. If you don’t have a garden, volunteer at your local botanical gardens or conservatory since those places are always looking for volunteers and it’s a great way to socialize and learn more about gardening from experienced gardeners.
