How to Green Your Workout Routine
Do any of your New Year’s resolutions involve cleaning out closets or drawers? Or perhaps creating more space in that spare room or garage? If you’re itching to get your home in order, but don’t want to toss everything into the trash, read our tips below. You’ll learn how to repurpose items, reduce waste, and adopt a more environmentally responsible lifestyle in general.
1. Get outdoors (and clean up while you’re at it!)
You can get great cardio from walking, running, cycling, or hiking, and who says you can’t do a set of sit-ups or flow through some yoga poses out in the fresh air? Nothing feels better than reducing your carbon footprint. If you need to head to a gym or studio, choose one in your neighborhood so you can walk or bike there. Wherever you are, don’t forget to pick up any trash you see along the way!
2. Purchase eco-friendly options
It’s getting easier every day to find athletic wear from ethical companies that protect people and the environment. You can even wear leggings made from recycled bottles! If you want to go green with your materials as well, just check the labels of the products you’re considering. Many exercise mats, for example, are now crafted from cork and natural rubber.
3. Recycle your gear
The closed loop system isn’t just for your newspapers or juice cartons. Think twice before you throw those t-shirts or running shoes in the trash! If you have any lightly used pieces, consider donating them to a thrift shop so someone else can enjoy them. Alternatively, check out the recycling options in your area. Some companies, like Nike, offer drop-off locations so you can give your worn items a new life.
4. Quench your thirst sustainably
We don’t want to sound like a broken record, but please, invest in a reusable water bottle or two! You can purchase them nearly everywhere these days, and you will reduce so much waste this way. If you exercise at home, you can even use one your regular cups or glasses.
5. Prepare your snacks the night before
It’s a good practice to fuel up after a good workout, but you should do your best to bring along sustainable options that won’t fill up our landfills. Pack some oatmeal into a thermos, or blend a smoothie and seal it up in a Mason jar. Don’t forget the metal straw or spoon!