It would seem in some ways that hobbies are the type of activity where a person sits in one place, and many of them are just that. Not all of them have to be done that way, and finding a new hobby that includes movement can be an excellent way to get into shape. Bird watching is an underrated hobby that combines light exercise and a passion for collecting. While the collecting is due to marking down which birds have been seen, it does not lessen the basic idea of collecting as many sightings as possible. As for the exercise portion, a walk through the woods can burn calories and strengthen leg muscles without a formal session at the gym.
Many woodland paths are not fully developed, and walking them can take quite a few calories. The uneven ground combined with the need to move in a slightly different way from regular walking can actually burn off more fat cells than twice the distance in the tame local park. For those determined to find even the most hidden nests and habitats, the woods can be a physical challenge.
The walking portion of this hobby is good for the legs, but the lungs and heart will also find benefits. A raised heartbeat while skipping from stone to stone can help the cardiovascular system. Supporting the body as it moves, the lungs will need to take in more air to oxygenate the body, and it is a good stretch for them. Many bird watchers prefer going to the countryside, so the fresh air can also be considered a benefit.
Hobbies are a fun way to spend time, but they can also be used as a way to get fit without a visit to the gym. For those who want to find every bird in their area, a walk in the woods on a regular basis can become part of their fitness routine.
