Spending time outdoors generally involves greater physical activity and more mental stimulation. If you’re looking for a hobby that involves using your body and exercising your mind, you can choose from a number of different areas. These four offer productive use of your time while you enjoy fresh air, more exercise and an interest you can easily share with other people.

Gardening

Gardening can be an absorbing hobby that gets you outdoors into the fresh air on a daily basis. There’s always something new to be learned, new species to try, new techniques to increase yields and new ways to prevent damage to your plants. The reward for all your research and outdoor laboring is the ability to have fresh vegetables, right from the plant. Or if you prefer flowers, you can share with neighbors and friends.

Bird-Watching

Birds come in an almost endless variety, all with different habits and behaviors. Learning to recognize different birds and their calls offers many challenges and can bring a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when you set out to find an elusive species and actually catch sight of one. You can also combine bird watching with photography for extra benefits.

Hunting

Hunting is an endeavor that runs deep in human history. It can be a satisfying and engaging hobby as you learn the specialized techniques and tips needed to succeed. Hunting offers both challenges and a sense of accomplishment as you learn the ways of tracking and mastering your prey, while enjoying the great outdoors. You can generally find hunting clubs and other organizations that can advise you on hunting rifles and appropriate training to ensure your safety when engaging in this age-old activity.

Cycling

You’ve probably ridden your bike since you were a tiny child. Re-learning that sense of freedom and skill can be a great way to spend time outdoors. Cycling is a great way to get in shape while you enjoy exploring your neighborhood and town. Cycling is also a good way to socialize with others who enjoy the activity. It’s one of the best methods for losing weight, increasing muscle strength and improving your endurance, without engaging in high-impact exercise. Of course, you should always wear safety equipment and map your route carefully to avoid heavy traffic, to avoid hazards and accidents.

If you have a desire to spend more time outdoors, there are a number of activities that can provide entertainment, increasing skill levels and common interest with like-minded individuals. These four hobbies can utilize your unique abilities and allow you a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

Author's Bio: 

Anica is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. You can connect with Anica on Twitter @AnicaOaks.