Tired of the gym grind? Find your next fitness obsession outdoors

If the same old gym routine has gotten old, or you've let your membership lapse, consider a fresh new way to stay active: Go outside.

Exercising outdoors can boost your physical and mental health, thanks to exposure to vitamin D via sunlight and reduced stress from spending time in nature. Another advantage is the wide variety of activities you can do to match your fitness level. You'll enjoy fresh air and sunshine, the beauty of nature, and getting to know your neighborhood and neighbors a little better.

Note: It's always a good idea to see your doctor before beginning any exercise program, especially if you haven't been active lately.

Late summer and autumn are perfect for being outdoors, so here are some ideas to get you started.

The beauty of walking

Nothing beats walking for simplicity and effectiveness when it comes to supporting your well-being. Beyond a good, supportive pair of shoes, you don't need special equipment, and you can just walk out your door and around your neighborhood.

If you haven't been exercising lately, start slowly and don't walk faster or longer than is comfortable. Gradually increasing your pace and distance can boost your heart rate and improve your stamina. Maintain good posture while walking, with your head up and shoulders back.

Keep walking interesting by changing up your route or inviting friends. Explore local parks or walking paths for even more variety.

Want more challenge? Beyond picking up speed and extending your route, tackle some hills or stairs, pump your arms as you walk or wear a weighted vest.

Stay safe: Bring a water bottle for longer walks, dress comfortably and use sunscreen to protect your skin. Avoid listening to loud music or noise-blocking headphones that can keep you from hearing potential hazards. Keep a fully charged phone with you, and tell someone where you're going for extended treks.

Take it up a notch: Hiking and running

When you're ready for more, consider hiking or running, depending on your fitness level and preferences.

Hiking is all about exploring the natural environment, traversing trails through forests and other terrain including state or national parks. Hiking requires proper gear and safety measures like sturdier footwear, bringing plenty of water and snacks, and being prepared for everything from encounters with insects and wildlife to inclement weather.

Stay safe: Research the park or terrain you're visiting ahead of time, so you know what to bring. Follow park rules and stay on trails, make sure your phone is fully charged before leaving, and tell someone where you're going — and/or hike with a buddy.

Considering running? It's a good idea to see your doctor to ensure you can handle this strenuous activity. Proper footwear is vital for protecting your feet and joints, as is staying on flat, even surfaces. Gentle stretching before and after running can help prevent injury.

Stay safe: Start slowly, stay hydrated and pay attention to your body's signals. Walk as needed, and use rest days so your body can recover.

Be a team player

Miss playing sports you enjoyed as a kid? Always wanted to play one? Being on a team is a fantastic way to get outside, stay active and socialize. Good places to find a softball, baseball or soccer team include parks and rec centers and community education programs. They often have classes and leagues for beginners and/or older adults.

You could try a popular outdoor game to play with a friend or two, like the current pickleball craze — or tennis, basketball, golf or ultimate Frisbee.

Stay safe: Wear protective gear and sunscreen to protect your skin and scalp. Comfortable shoes, protective eyewear and weather-appropriate clothing is also recommended. Warm up and stretch before games to help avoid injury. Stay hydrated and cool down slowly to recover from exertion.

"Life is like a bicycle …"

"… To stay balanced, you must keep moving," or so the saying goes. Cycling is an effective, low-impact way to stay fit and enjoy being outside. If you don't own a bicycle, many cities offer low-cost bike rentals. Some bike shops have rentals or sell refurbished bicycles.

Explore biking trails in your area, and consider joining a local club or bike with a friend. Sites like Traillink.com can help you find trails for biking, hiking and running.

Stay safe: Get your bike checked out and tuned up if it hasn't been ridden for a while. Protect yourself by wearing a bike helmet, and refamiliarize yourself with rules of the road before heading out. You can find bicycle safety tips at NHTSA.gov/road-safety/bicycle-safety.

These are just a few ways to exercise in the great outdoors. Feeling adventurous? Explore other options like swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking and more. There's a whole world of fun activities out there waiting for you.