Fun Ways to Stay Active This Summer in Calgary & Edmonton
Having a balanced meal plan isn’t the only way to stay healthy this summer. The sun is shining, the days are longer, and it’s the perfect time to get outside and move your body. There’s something powerful about combining fresh air, sunshine, and physical activity; it naturally boosts your mood, reduces stress, and helps you feel more energized. Whether you’re going for a brisk walk, swimming laps, or joining a group activity, that little bit of movement goes a long way for both your physical and mental well-being.
Proven Health Benefits of Outdoor Activities
Spending time outdoors increases your vitamin D levels, supports your immune system, and gives your brain a natural mood lift. In a season where staying active can be as fun as it is healthy, it makes sense to take full advantage of the warmer weather.
If you’re located in Calgary or Edmonton, you’re in luck; both cities offer a wide variety of outdoor fitness options for all ages and fitness levels. From scenic walking trails and public pools to summer run events and beach volleyball courts, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active while enjoying everything Alberta’s summer has to offer.
Ready to make the most of the season? Explore this list of fun outdoor activities in Calgary and Edmonton that will keep you moving, smiling, and feeling great all summer long.
Join a Local Run
Looking for a challenge and a little extra motivation to get moving this summer? Signing up for a local run is a great way to set a goal, stay accountable, and enjoy the energy of a community event. Whether you’re a beginner easing into your first 5K or a seasoned runner ready to take on a 10K or half marathon, Calgary and Edmonton offer a wide variety of summer races to choose from.
You’ll find everything from casual fun runs and themed races, like colour runs or costume events, to more competitive chip-timed races for serious runners. Many of these events are designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all fitness levels, with some even offering walking options and stroller-friendly courses.
What’s more, plenty of races in Alberta support local causes and nonprofits. That means you’re not just running for yourself, you’re also contributing to your community. It’s a win-win for your health and your heart.
Check out the full race schedule to find an event that fits your pace and goals:
RunGuides – Calgary & Edmonton
Hit the Pool
Hot day? Jump in. Outdoor swimming pools in Calgary and Edmonton are open all summer, offering an easy way to stay cool and stay active. Swimming is low-impact cardio that boosts endurance, tones muscles, and improves heart health without putting stress on your joints. It’s ideal for all fitness levels. From casual swimmers to those looking for a full-body workout.
In Calgary, there are 8 public outdoor pools open from mid-June to early September, with lifeguards on duty and online booking available. Edmonton offers several city-run pools with free admission during select hours, no booking required.
Whether you’re doing laps, water jogging, or just splashing around, swimming is a smart way to get your heart rate up and beat the summer heat.
Calgary Outdoor Pools
Edmonton Outdoor Pools
Play Beach Volleyball
You don’t need an ocean to play beach volleyball. Calgary and Edmonton have public sand courts ready for action all summer. It’s an easy way to stay active, build coordination, and get in some cardio, no gym required.
Grab a few friends and head to a local court. Keep it relaxed or set up teams for a friendly match. It’s a great way to mix fitness with fun. Most beach volleyball courts are first come, first served, so bring a ball and show up early to secure your spot.
Perfect for group workouts, casual meetups, or even team-building, beach volleyball is one of the best outdoor group sports in Alberta.
Find a court near you:
Calgary Courts
Edmonton Locations
Try a Scavenger Hunt
Scavenger hunts are a fun way to stay active without the pressure of a workout. You’ll be walking, jogging, solving clues, and moving from one spot to the next, all while staying engaged and entertained.
It’s a creative outdoor activity that mixes problem-solving with physical movement. Great for families, coworkers, or friend groups, scavenger hunts make fitness feel more like play.
Both Calgary and Edmonton offer self-guided and app-based scavenger hunts, with themed challenges that take you through parks, landmarks, and neighbourhoods. It’s one of the best active outdoor games for people who want variety and fun.
Take On the Spartan Race
If you’re into pushing limits, the Spartan Race is calling. It’s a tough mix of trail running, climbing, crawling, and obstacle course challenges, designed to test strength, speed, and grit. You’ll get muddy, sore, and probably tired, but you’ll finish stronger.
Go solo or sign up with friends for added motivation. It’s one of the top extreme outdoor workouts in Alberta.
The next Spartan Race in Alberta takes place in Red Deer on August 9 and 10, with entry starting at $29.99. All fitness levels are welcome, and every obstacle offers the option to skip or modify if needed.
Make the Most of Summer
From casual swims to next-level obstacle races, Calgary and Edmonton offer endless ways to stay active and make the most of the season. Whether you’re running a 5K, playing beach volleyball, or exploring the city through a scavenger hunt, there’s no shortage of outdoor options to keep you moving.
But staying active is only part of the picture, pairing your workouts with healthy, balanced meals helps fuel your body, support recovery, and boost overall results. Fit Kitchen makes it easy to eat well while staying on the go, with ready-to-eat meals designed for real life and active lifestyles.
Pick something fun, grab your gear, and get outside. Then let us handle the food part.
Want to share your summer with Fit Kitchen? Tag us @fitkitchencanada on Instagram and we might feature you!
