The practice of CrossFit has become increasingly popular in recent years, attracting many sports enthusiasts looking to challenge themselves. While traditional gyms offer suitable equipment and classes, many people prefer to train outdoors to enjoy nature while pushing their physical limits. Here is a selection of the best outdoor crossfit fields for a unique sporting experience!
1. The obstacle course of Parc de la Villette, Paris
Located in the heart of the French capital, Parc de la Villette offers an obstacle course specially designed for crossfit enthusiasts. Featuring varied obstacles such as climbing walls, zip lines, suspension beams and more, this outdoor crossfit field promises an intense and fun training session. In addition, the green setting of the park offers a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere to recharge your batteries after exercise.
2. Griffith Park Fitness Course, Los Angeles
This fitness trail located in Los Angeles’ famous Griffith Park is a true paradise for outdoor crossfit enthusiasts. With its high-end equipment, pull-up bars, gymnastics rings and various obstacles, this area offers endless training possibilities. Additionally, the breathtaking view of the city and surrounding hills adds an aesthetic dimension to this unique experience.
3. The Fontainebleau forest route, France
Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Fontainebleau forest, this outdoor crossfit course offers a sporting experience in communion with nature. The majestic trees, rocks and winding paths create a stimulating environment for crossfit enthusiasts. In addition, the diversity of obstacles and equipment available allows you to vary the exercises and work all muscle groups. A real breath of fresh air for sports fans looking for adrenaline and surpassing themselves.
4. Bondi Beach Fitness Course, Sydney
Located near Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach, this outdoor fitness course offers a unique experience combining sport and relaxation. Modern facilities and high-quality equipment allow crossfit enthusiasts to train in an exceptional setting. Additionally, proximity to the beach offers the opportunity to end an intense workout with a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the Pacific Ocean.
5. The Central Park fitness trail, New York
Central Park, a green oasis in the heart of bustling New York City, also offers an outdoor fitness trail suitable for crossfit enthusiasts. Modern, well-maintained equipment offers a multitude of options for varied and challenging workouts. In addition, the diversity of landscapes present in the park makes it possible to create unique outdoor training sessions, whether near lakes, hills or play areas.
The hidden benefits of outdoor crossfit
When talking about crossfit, many focus on the intensity of the exercises, the specialized equipment or the variety of routines. But an often overlooked, yet crucial, element is the setting in which these exercises are practiced: the external environment. Outdoor CrossFit not only provides a physical challenge, but also offers a multitude of benefits for mental and emotional well-being.
Reconnect with nature
Practicing crossfit outdoors, whether in an urban park or in the middle of the forest, allows you to reconnect with nature. This reconnection provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reduces stress. According to several studies, spending time in nature can reduce levels of the stress-related hormone cortisol. So you not only burn calories, but also calm your mind.
Improved air quality
Working out outside the confined walls of a gym also means breathing better quality air. In the open air, oxygen is purer, which can improve lung function and increase endurance. This burst of fresh oxygen can boost your energy and performance during training.
Increased mental stimulation
Outdoor environments are constantly changing. Every outdoor crossfit session is different, as the environment can change – whether due to weather conditions, the season, or simply the time of day. These subtle but constant changes stimulate the brain, keeping it alert and engaged. This contrasts with the predictable environment of a gym.
Diversity of terrain for varied training
Outdoor courts offer a variety that gyms simply can’t match. Whether on the sands of Bondi Beach, the winding paths of Fontainebleau Forest or the rolling hills of Griffith Park, each terrain brings its own set of challenges, forcing the body to adapt and strengthen in different ways .
Strengthen the sense of community
Finally, training outdoors often strengthens the feeling of belonging to a community. Whether you exercise alone or in a group, being outdoors means you are part of a public space, sharing the environment with others. This can encourage social interactions, provide opportunities to make new friends or simply strengthen the feeling of belonging to a community of sports fans.
Routine optimization: little-known tips for outdoor crossfit
In the world of outdoor crossfit, the experience is about more than just choosing the right place to train. In fact, there are lesser-known strategies that can amplify the benefits of your training and help you reach your goals faster. In this section we will discuss some tips that can enrich your outdoor crossfit routine, combining efficiency and fun.
Take advantage of the golden hours for training
One of the first tips to integrate into your routine is to choose the right time for your session. The golden hours, just after sunrise or just before sunset, not only provide beautiful light that can boost your morale, but the cooler temperatures can also help you avoid overheating and maximize your performance.
Incorporation of mindfulness elements
Crossfit is often associated with brutal intensity, but that doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate elements of mindfulness into your routine. Take a moment to focus on your breathing, feeling the connection with the earth beneath your feet and the energy of nature around you. This approach can not only improve your concentration, but also reduce the risk of injury by keeping you connected to your body.
Use of the natural landscape
Beyond the specially designed equipment, don’t forget to use the natural landscape that surrounds you. Rocks can serve as weights, hills can provide great resistance training, and trees can be great anchor points for equipment like TRXs. Let your creativity take over and use natural elements to your advantage.
Hydration and adequate nutrition
As basic as it may seem, proper hydration and nutrition can make all the difference in your workout. Make sure you hydrate well before, during and after training, and have a nutritious snack to recharge your batteries and aid muscle recovery.
Setting up a training log
Finally, consider keeping a workout log to track your progress. Write down the details of each session, including exercises performed, performance, and even your state of mind. Over time, this can provide you with valuable insight into what works best for you, allowing you to adjust and optimize your routine accordingly.
