Outdoor Recreation Benefits and Activities

Activities enjoyed outdoors that can involve a range of physical and mental challenges.

The physical, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being of a person.

Activities that involve exploring and traversing mountainous terrain.

A combination of swimming, diving, and snorkeling that involves exploring underwater environments.

Involves navigating through a natural environment using a map and compass.

Time spent on essential biological needs, like sleeping, eating, and personal hygiene.

Time devoted to economic activities, like work, school, and household chores.

Time remaining after accounting for existence and subsistence time.

The process of restoring and refreshing oneself, often done through enjoyable activities.

Activities chosen based on individual interests, needs, and desires.

The extent to which an activity provides satisfaction or fulfillment.

The process of connecting with nature for relaxation, reflection, or spiritual growth.

Activities that require a moderate effort level, burning 3.5 to 7 calories per minute.

Activities that require a high effort level, burning more than 7 calories per minute.

A measure of energy expenditure during physical activity.

Walking at 3-4.5 mph, hiking, biking with few hills, recreational swimming, snorkeling, and aquatic aerobics fall into this category.

Walking at 5 mph or faster, jogging, running, climbing hills, backpacking, and mountain biking fall into this category.

Physical activity, such as walking or biking, helps prevent a sedentary lifestyle which is linked to various health issues.

Refers to activities like rock climbing, rappelling, mountain climbing, and surfing.

The benefits of physical activity extend beyond physical health, including reducing stress, improving sleep, and boosting mood.

Engaging in physical activities outdoors, even if it’s just a walk, can help combat a sedentary lifestyle by getting you moving.

Activities like fishing while walking along the river bank, horse riding, kayaking on calm water, and sailing can be considered forms of outdoor recreation.

Leaving natural areas in the same condition as you found them. This includes refraining from taking any natural objects, introducing non-native species, or altering the environment.

Using portable stoves for cooking instead of campfires to reduce lasting impacts on the environment.

Observing wildlife from a distance and respecting their natural spaces, especially during sensitive periods like breeding and raising young.

Avoiding feeding wild animals or birds as it can disrupt their natural behaviors and expose them to predators.

Being considerate of others while enjoying the outdoors, respecting their experience and allowing the natural sounds to prevail.

The feeling of renewal and revitalization that comes from spending time in natural settings.

The ability of nature to draw our attention effortlessly, allowing us to relax and de-stress.

The positive impact of outdoor activities on our mood, confidence, and creativity.

The process of discovering your inner self and values through experiencing nature.

The act of engaging in activities that require physical exertion and movement.

Activities outdoors that provide a range of physical and mental benefits.

Activities that help people relax, de-stress, and unwind.

The time spent in unhealthy, sedentary activities, often involving screens.

Plan your trip before you go. This includes checking if your activities are permitted and preparing for the unexpected by gathering all necessary equipment, reviewing safety procedures, and learning about the local environment.

Stay on durable surfaces, like established trails or campsites, to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems. This helps minimize the impact of your visit and ensures a positive experience for everyone.

Dispose of all waste properly, meaning everything needs to be packed out with you. This is especially true for food scraps and biodegradable items, which attract wildlife and can disrupt the ecosystem.

Leave everything in place. This applies to artifacts, rocks, plants, or anything else you find in the natural environment. Simply observe and enjoy its natural beauty, without altering it.

Practice good hygiene, especially when camping. This involves using designated camping toilets or digging cat holes for waste. Always wash your dishes with biodegradable soap and dispose of wastewater carefully.

Consider the impacts of your actions and minimize your footprint. This ensures that others can enjoy the natural environment as well. Consider carrying a small first-aid kit and emergency supplies for unforeseen events.