Warmer weather, longer days and sunshine are upon us. Now is the perfect time of year to get outside whenever you have the chance. Whether you decide to take a lunch break walk around the block or eat your lunch on the lawn of your office building, sunshine has a way of brightening everyone’s day- literally and figuratively.
If you’re struggling with a common digestive health issue or just hoping to maintain optimal gut health, exercising three to five times a week will help. Through consistent exercise you can improve your over digestive tract and increase overall digestive functioning throughout your body. From walking to running and biking to yoga, there are various ways to get up and move this summer. Take your exercise to the next level and bring it outside for some fresh air and warm weather vibes right here in the Boston area.
Here are our top 5 Boston area parks to exercise outdoors this season.
Located in West Cambridge on 99 Sherman Avenue, Danehy Park is a 50 acre recreational retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Built on the site of an old landfill, Cambridge made the forward-thinking choice to turn a wasteland into an outdoor space for its residents to enjoy time outdoors with their family and friends. The landfill closed in the mid 1970’s and was later transformed into the park that is there today. This lush community resource can be used for all of your exercise adventures, from trail walks to pavement runs and team-based activities like soccer, baseball or frisbee. Aside from exercise, many locals and visitors use this beautiful park as a resource to study nature or to barbecue with their loved ones during the summer months.
2. The Esplanade
Open from dawn to dusk daily, this three mile stretch of green space is the perfect oasis in the city. The esplanade extends one way along the Boston shoreline of the Charles River, from the Boston Museum of Science to Boston University. With over 5 miles of pathway, you are sure to find a favorite path to take for your weekly walks or jogs throughout the park. Throughout the esplanade are various historical sites, including the Iconic Hatch Memorial Shell. There are boat docks throughout the green space along with fields for pickup games and an exercise park filled with standard exercise equipment for all to use. The amount of exercise to be had here seems endless. For the kids, there are three fun playgrounds that can be used year around. Throughout the year the Esplanade Association offers free fitness classes for all fitness and athletic levels.
3. Boston Common
Known for its frog pond and famous swan boats, Boston Common is a beautiful place to visit during the warmer months. Whether you’re looking for a calming space to practice yoga, a picturesque stroll through beautiful green space or a quiet bench to meditate during your lunch break in the city, Boston Common has it all. Located on Beacon Street in Boston, this park is the perfect place to exercise solo or with a small group. The atmosphere is peaceful and quiet throughout the day.
4. Corey Hill Outlook
Most notably known for the striking view of Boston and Cambridge at the top of the hill, this Brookline park stretched 4 acres on Summit Avenue. Offering walking and jogging trails, a playground, a dog park and benches throughout, Corey HIll Outlook is a lush green space to enjoy this summer. Kick your cardio into full-gear by taking on the climb up the hill to take in the views of the cities below. Snap some selfies and stay awhile at the top to enjoy the weather. This little, but mighty park on the top of a hill is all it's raved to be and the view is phenomenal. Go and check it out this summer.
5. Arnold Arboretum
Located on the campus of prestigious and historical Harvard University, Arnold Arboretum is a glorious garden and green space in the middle of a big city. Free and open daily, the arboretum has been fully funded by the community since its start in 1872. With a focus on the flora from eastern North America and eastern Asia, this 281 acre preserve boasts thousands of plant and tree species. If you’re looking for a spot to take a summer walk or jog, this is the place. As you navigate through, take some time to learn about the species that reside there. After all, Harvard says the arboretum is “a museum of trees teaching the world about plants.”
Wherever you decide to stroll this summer, take some time to spend outdoors enjoying all the beauty that comes with natural green space. Throughout the Boston area, there are hundreds of lush parks, walking trails and designated space for sporting activities. Outdoor activities can do a world of good for your digestive health, so enjoy the sunshine and move your body today.