Pete’s Pick: Get Outside Resolutions for 2018

Did you already break those resolutions you set on New Year’s?

It’s OK. I am giving you official permission for a do-over.

Make a resolution to get outside and start this weekend.

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 (starts Jan. 14)
• For cyclists: Bike 1 hour a day for 50 days
• For runners: Sign up for a Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon race (marathon, half marathon, 10K, 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 trails (and help build new ones)

If you are looking for something more specific to do, the Roanoke Outside calendar is always packed with outdoor activities and events. (And make sure to subscribe to our weekly newsletter; it includes plenty of events and post-outdoor fun with live music and brewery events as well.)

SIGN UP FOR THE FREE NEWSLETTER HERE

An outdoor resolution is about more than playing outside, although that’s a pretty awesome part of it. Spending time in the outdoors can actually change your brain, making you more relaxed and creative. (There’s science to back it up!)

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.

There’s an even bigger benefit when you get outside with friends. So make sure to invite someone else or join a group when you plan outdoor activties this year. (Here’s a little more on the science of why group exercise is good for you.)

Get outside! I hope to see you on the trail, greenway, at a park, or on the slopes soon.