Pete’s Pick: Get Outside, You’ll Feel Better

New year. New goals. New resolutions to play outside and get more active.

Getting started can often be the hardest part, but don’t worry we’ve got plenty of ideas to help you start the year off right. (Start with the list below or search tons of events in the Roanoke Outside calendar.) Whether you want to hike, bike, run, or just help keep our mountains and trails in great shape, there’s a challenge for you. Tackle it alone or grab a few friends and compete for bragging rights!

• For hikers: Commit to 100 miles in 100 days
• For cyclists: Bike 1 hour a day for 50 days
• For runners: Sign up for a Blue Ridge Marathon race (marathon, half marathon, 10K, double marathon, or kids fun run)
• For trail runners: Compete in the RNUTS race series
• For skiers: Hop on a shuttle to Snowshoe
• For mountain lovers: Take care of winter trails

And if you haven’t made an outdoor resolution yet, maybe you should. Getting outside can actually change your brain, making you more relaxed and creative. (No kidding, there’s science to back it up!)

Getting outdoors can make you feel better. It’s called ecotherapy. It can also encourage creative thought and problem-solving, and reduce stress and anxiety. You can learn more about the science behind outdoor therapy from Upworthy.

Or just take my word for it and get outside!