Summertime! Long, sunny days and warm weather in August beckon us outside to explore, spend time with friends and family, and soak up those rays while we can.
Looking for some unique activities to try before the end of summer? For KT Tape Outdoors Week, we've compiled a list of the coolest solo and group activities for all athletic levels to try this August.
1. Mud Runs
What better way to cool off and test your strength than during one of the many mud runs happening this summer? Tough Mudder is one of the largest mud runs happening all over the US. These races were started in 2010 by Will Dean and Guy Livingstone and are 5-15 kilometer courses filled with obstacles, mud pits, climbing walls, and lots of other opportunities to let your inner American Ninja Warrior shine!
Upcoming Tough Mudder events include:
Can't make one of these mud runs? There's plenty of different events happening through out the summer. Check out Let's Do This for a full list that includes everything from female-only to Spartan Races.
Mud runs can be finished in 5K, 10K, or Kids' formats, so there's a length of course that suits everyone's athletic level. If you're new to these types of exercise, make sure to stock up on KT Tape Pro Extreme tape to reduce muscle soreness and help you push through those obstacles!
2. Mountain Biking
Got a free morning or lunch break? Grab your bike and hit the trail! Mountain biking is one of the most accessible, adrenaline-filled sports there is. All you need is a bike, helmet, and open space! Mountain biking has gained tons of traction in recent years, with lots of new trails and parks popping up in all types of environments. Many of the new development has been focused on getting beginner riders out there, making the sport more accessible to all.
If you're completely new to mountain biking, REI has some excellent beginners and novice mountain biking day trips and they'll even provide the equipment! What better way to get outside and try a new sport while being supported by a knowledgeable guide?
Mountain biking is great exercise, but doesn't put a lot of strain on knees and other joints. Every ride will work your muscles from your core to your calves and is the perfect cardio too! You'll get a full-body workout while enjoying the scenery and the great outdoors.
If you're worried about soreness or have an injury you'd like to protect, make sure to gear up with KT Tape Pro, which will stick with you even when you shower off the dirt later. If you're worried about blisters forming beneath your death-grip on the handlebars, KT Tape Blister Prevention will protect you throughout the ride!
3. Virtual Running Events
Is a run more your speed? Running is great cardio and can really help you clear your head, but if you're looking to shake things up and try something new, there are plenty of options out there. Active.com has a list of all types of running events happening this summer, including a few virtual runs.
What's a virtual run? These are running events that you can complete at any time, on your own or with a group, and when you sign up you'll be sent a suggested route as well as swag! These runs are the perfect way to explore where you live, spend time with friends, and get some exercise without the crowds of a larger race. A few virtual runs happening are:
If you're heading out for a longer run like a 10K or a marathon, make sure to prepare with KT Tape Blister Prevention to protect your heels and toes and also check out our application library to see how KT Tape can support you where you need it. We're here to make sure you can get out there and run without fear of blisters and with reduced muscle soreness.
4. The Conqueror Challenges
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to walk the Inca Trail, climb Mt. Everest, or run the entire Great Wall of China? Although these are feats of strength that take months or years of preparation, The Conqueror has created an experience that allows you to push yourself and run the total distance of a variety of international landmarks over a length of time of your choice.
When you sign up for a Conqueror challenge, you'll select a location and distance, the number of weeks you'll have to complete it, and anyone who you're participating with. You have the option to share the total distance or complete it on your own. During the challenge, you'll have access to an app that provides street views of the actual location which will transport you to your chosen location so you can experience Athens, Africa, or China from wherever you are!
These challenges can be completed by doing any distance-based activity like running, biking, swimming, or rowing and are a great way to shake up your exercise routine and conquer a goal. When you complete your challenge, you'll even be sent a beautiful challenge medal to commemorate your achievement.
Whatever outdoor activities you choose to explore this summer, KT Tape is proud to provide you with the best support and performance tools so you can move freely. New to KT Tape? Check out our guide for all the information you need to purchase the right tape for your needs and experience all the benefits. Have a great summer!
