7 Fun Ways to Stay Fit Outdoors in San Diego (Other Than Personal Training)

Thanks to the spring weather, this San Diego personal trainer has been staying fit by spending more time outdoors. I love lifting weights in my Carlsbad gym, but there are so many perks to working out in nature, especially when you live somewhere as beautiful as San Diego.

Numerous studies have shown the cognitive benefits of working out in and around the ocean (see the book Blue Mind). There is also a new movement from Japan called “forest bathing” that emphasizes our need to connect with nature on a regular basis.

It’s true that nature can have a grounding and inspiring effect. It also lessens the likelihood of depression and can relieve mental burnout. If you’re struggling to get your workouts in, try taking them outdoors and see if a change of scenery can energize your routine.

I live in Vista and I offer personal training in Carlsbad, so there are plenty of opportunities to get outdoors on a regular basis. Here are a few of my favorite places to workout in nature and some of my favorite outdoor activities.

Stand Up Paddleboard at the Carlsbad Lagoon

I love doing SUP at the Carlsbad lagoon! The water here is usually pretty calm, so it’s good for beginners who are just learning the basics. You can rent paddle boards or bring your own. I like to complement my strength training workouts with yoga, and there’s nothing like attempting a downward dog while floating on the water.

Hiking Elfin Forest in Harmony Grove

The Way Up Trail is a 3-mile out-and-back trail that climbs over 800 feet to a picnic area that overlooks a reservoir. I like to hike this trail during the week when it’s less crowded and I can let my dogs off leash at the top. Potato Chip Rock and Torrey Pines are my other favorite San Diego hikes.

Biking the Seawall at Carlsbad Village

Carlsbad Boulevard runs along miles of beach, perfect for working out on foot or by bike. I like to start in the Village and go south toward the campgrounds. If you walk or run this route, there are lots of places to fill up your water bottle along the way. Sometimes I will sneak a short walk in along the Carlsbad sea wall in between seeing personal training clients.

Running 5Ks in Carlsbad and Oceanside

I’m not a long distance runner. I tend to go more for explosive power than endurance, which is also the focus of my personal training sessions in Carlsbad. But once and awhile it’s fun to do a race. The Carlsbad 5000 takes place every March and is the World’s Fastest 5K. The Oceanside Turkey Trot takes place every Thanksgiving near the Oceanside Pier.

Camping in Carlsbad

If you love the beach, this is a bucket list item! You’ll fall asleep to the sound of the ocean and can spend all day swimming and surfing in the waves below the cliffs. Just make sure to book in advance—this is a popular camping spot! It’s provides a nice break from personal training, so I can enjoy uninterrupted time with my family.

Kayaking in La Jolla Cove

The San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park includes 6,000 acres of ocean bottoms and tidelands. It’s a great place to kayak because you’re almost guaranteed to see leopard sharks (harmless), sea lions, and Garibaldi (California’s state fish). When you’re done, you can enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many cute cafes in La Jolla.

These are just a few of the fun ways you can stay fit while in San Diego, other than traditional workouts like personal training in a gym. For more of my adventures in and out of my personal training studio in Carlsbad, follow me on Instagram.