Ground
Plan Your Next Outdoor Activity From Pavement To Peak
Are you looking for a fun activity that isn’t the usual outdoor go-to of hiking or biking? We got that covered for you.
Are you a runner? Then why not move outside your comfort zone and take up trail running? This adrenaline-fueled activity is the perfect intersection of hiking and running.
Whether you’re looking for a solo activity like trail running or something you can do in a group, like rock climbing, we’ve got all the deets on kickass activities that will leave your heart pumping and your face smiling.
Here you’ll find some resources on getting started with these activities and guides on some of the gear you’ll need to make the most of the experiences.
Latest in Ground
Essential Skateboard Accessories for Optimal Performance
Skateboards are not just sports equipment or hobby supply. They are vehicles. Modes of transport. And, like any mode of transport, the better their parts, the better their performance. A standard skateboard is made up of three major components – the deck, the trucks, and the wheels. Any of these components can be upgraded to
Skateboard Anatomy: How To Build A Board
A skateboard looks simple. But, in reality, it’s a finely-tuned vehicle that can handle speed and a lot of hard knocks. That requires a sturdy build. To have a complete skateboard, you need only seven main components: A deck 2 trucks 4 wheels (with bearings) Each main part of a skateboard has additional parts built-in.
How To Stand On A Skateboard (Proper Skateboard Foot Placement Technique)
When you ride a skateboard, there are two ways you can stand – left foot leading or right foot leading. If you stand with your left foot leading, this is considered a “regular” skateboard stance. If you stand with your right foot leading, this is considered a “goofy” skateboard stance. Despite the names, “regular” is
How To Push On A Skateboard (Quick Beginner’s Guide)
Now that you know how to stand on a skateboard, it’s time to learn how to push. Pushing is the very first thing you will do to set your skateboard in motion. It is the impetus that drives a skateboard forward. At least, when you are first starting out. How to Start a Skateboard To
The 6 Best Skate Parks In Las Vegas
Visiting Sin City and looking for a place to work on your moves with your skateboard? Or maybe you live in Las Vegas and don’t have your own personal half pipe in the backyard. Not to worry fellow skaters, cause there is a live and thriving skateboard community in Vegas. As a result of this
9 Best Mountain Climbs In Europe
Mountaineers and adventurous hikers see more in Europe than beautiful and historical cities. From the classic Alps to the Pyrenees, and the far off Caucasus Mountains, Europe offers a wealth of climbing opportunities of varying levels. Though not the tallest in the world, they are a commendable testament to nature. Unique formations and conditions make
Best Longboard Brands (2021)
Whether you’re looking to get a complete longboard or longboard deck, there are some skate brands out there that make better longboards than others. So, we dis some research into it and we’ve found the top longboard brands in the industry. These are the longboard brands that are known for making sick gear for longboarders
Best Skateboard Brands In The World (2021)
Whether you’re a complete noob or a seasoned skateboarder, one thing is for sure – some brands make way better boards than their competition. So, we looked into it and we’ve found the top brands in the industry. These are the skateboard brands that are known for making sick gear for skateboarders without compromising on
What’s The Difference Between Dry Rope And Non-Dry Rope?
If you’re getting into rock climbing, you may or may not have heard about the “dry rope vs non-dry rope” argument. You’ll need to make many subjective decisions as you purchase climbing gear for yourself, and the dilemma of dry rope vs non-dry rope is just one of them. After all, your climbing rope is
Does Dropping A Hydro Flask Ruin It?
If you’re like me, then you take your Hydro Flask stainless steel water bottle with you everywhere. Mine is my favorite hiking water bottle and I also travel with it. I even took my Hydro Flask on a year long round the world trip a few years ago. But you don’t have to travel around
What You Should Know About Climbing Denali (Mt. McKinley)
If you enjoy climbing and mountaineering, then you’ve likely already heard about Denali. But though you may know of its size and grandeur, you may not be familiar with the costs and dangers associated with Denali. Let’s take a closer look at this stunning Alaskan mountain and discover everything you need to know about climbing
How Much Does It Cost to Climb Mount Everest?
When people think of climbing a mountain, thoughts of the cost aren’t the first that comes to mind. Most people consider the time, physical fitness, and equipment requirements before questioning the necessary fees. Unfortunately, the cost to climb climbs itself each year. If you have ever wondered, “how much does it cost to climb Mount
What Is A Good Mile Time For Beginners? (How Long To Run A Mile?)
If you are new to running, it can seem incredibly intimidating. How do you know if you are doing a good job? One of the most popular ways to gauge progress is tracking how long it takes you to run a mile. For beginners, it may seem like it takes you forever, but remember that
What Is A Good 5k Time For Beginners?
Whether you are just getting started running or have experience and want to compete, a 5k is an excellent way to acquaint yourself with the running community. As a 5k participant, your finishing time is likely the primary detail that you want to know. However, this number does not always have to be a huge
Trail Running Shoes vs. Running Shoes
With so many types of shoes, one would think that focusing with a simple ‘running shoe’ category would be enough. However, that is not quite the case. Within the category ‘running shoes,’ you’ll find plenty of subsections dedicated to different types of running.. Whether you are a trail runner or keep to the pavement or
The 5 Most Expensive Mountains to Climb
Each year, thousands of people crowd to the world’s tallest peaks to take on the challenge of scaling the summits. Whether you’re an expert mountaineer or a beginner adventurer, a successful climb takes skill, endurance, and a good deal of budgeting. Before you set out on your journey to conquer the next peak, learn about
What is Bouldering? And How To Get Started
Bouldering is rock climbing usually done on smaller, natural or human-made rocks without ropes or harnesses. Athletes usually enjoy bouldering on obstacles under 15 feet, though there are notable exceptions. Since it is a smaller climb, it focuses on power and technique. If you’re thinking about getting into bouldering, you’ll want to learn a little
What Is Mountaineering? And How To Get Started
Just like the word “mountaineering” is centered around a “mountain,” the sport itself revolves around majestic mountains. Mountaineering is the sport of mountain climbing, but the term can also be applied to walking and climbing up lower mountains and ones with moderate to low levels of difficulty. Just because novices can enjoy mountaineering, that doesn’t
How To Harden Feet To Prevent Blisters (And For Barefoot Running)
A foot blister is classified as a pocket of fluids that varies in different sizes. Getting a blister on your foot is genuinely easy. Fortunately, the treatment for one is likewise straightforward. Before you whip out a bandage or ailment, it’s essential to understand the actual cause of your foot blisters. By understanding the potential
Sport vs Traditional Climbing: What’s The Difference
If you’re just getting into climbing, then you might be thinking that both of these are just about climbing up a rock, right? And at core, all climbing is about scaling up to the top. But there is a distinct difference between sport and trad climbing. The quick answer is that traditional climbing is a
How To Clean Climbing Shoes (And Remove The Stink)
Just like your everyday street shoes, your climbing shoes can really start to smell ripe if you’re not taking proper care of them and cleaning them once in a while. In addition to getting rid of stinky climbing shoe odor, regularly cleaning those climbers helps you get a bit more wear out of them by
Mountaineering Terms: Different Parts Of A Mountain
If you’re getting into mountaineering, then you might read some expedition reports to pass the time. As you read those reports, you’re going to see a variety of different terms referring the to the different parts of mountains. Not sure what they mean or what part of the mountain you can find them on? We’ve
Sore Throat When Running? Common Causes & Helpful Tips
If you’re out there pounding pavement and really putting in your all to stay fit and healthy, then you might be wondering why your throat feels a bit scratchy after or during your run. Why does my throat hurt after running? used to be one of the most common things that I’d hear from my
Get a Triathlon Watch. Your PR is Waiting!
If you’re reading this, chances are you have already crushed a few hills and swam plenty of laps. You’re ready to take the next step and milk the most out of your multi-sport training. Keep your eyes on the sweet prize of crossing the finish line as you browse the triathlon watch options, while keeping
Rock Climbing vs Weight Lifting
If you’re looking to add some strength training to your fitness routine, then you may be weighing the pros and cons of both weight lifting and rock climbing. Well, if you’re still not sure which is the better option for you, then let us try to help you out. Below we’ll take a deeper look
Bouldering For Beginners: Benefits And Tips To Get You Started
If you’ve seen a climbing wall at your local gym, then you might be thinking “what’s that all about?” and “is it just rock climbing inside?” We’ve got the answers to those questions and more. And before you know it, you’ll be scaling that climbing wall at the gym like a pro. Ready to learn
Is It Okay To Run Every Day?
Running is one of the best aerobic activities available for fitness enthusiasts. Whether your goal is to shed a few pounds for summer, shape and tone your body, improve your endurance or train for an upcoming race, a good running/training program can make all the difference. However, running is also a “high-impact” form of exercise.
How To Improve Your Running Speed
Once you’ve built enough endurance to call yourself a runner, you may want to turn your attention to a new goal—running faster. If this resonates with you, then you’re in the right place. In this article, I’ll share with my best tips on how to increase your speed as a runner. These tips will help
HIIT vs Running: The Benefits of Sprinting
Sprints are short bursts of running in which you go as hard and as fast as you can for abbreviated amounts of time. The idea with sprinting is to expend all of your energy and muscle strength to tap out your body’s resources. Basically, it’s power running. Since sprinting is just another form of running
How To Wear Volleyball Knee Pads (The Right Way)
If you’ve ever played volleyball, then you know that a game can leave you with red welts in two places on your body – your arms and your knees. And if you’re playing sand volleyball, then you can end up with some serious skinned knee ouchies below the knee area. Enter the humble set of
Last Minute Shopper? These Make Awesome Gifts For Outdoorsy People
Got someone active and outdoorsy on your gift shopping list? Whether you’re shopping for a mountain biking enthusiasts or a snowshoer, there are a few gift options out there that are perfect for all outdoor lovers. It doesn’t matter the occasion – Christmas, birthdays, or some other special day – the gift ideas below are
21 Science-Backed Benefits Of Spending Time In Nature
Did you know that Americans spend an estimated 93% of their lives indoors? And the Brits spend only slightly more time outside with 90% of their lives spent indoors. Would you spend more time outside if it improved your mental and physical health? Research has shown that it does that in spades. We’ve collected the
REI’s Gear Up, Get Out Sale: 13 Awesome Outdoor Gift Ideas [Our Top Picks]
I buy all of my outdoor gear from only a few different places, with one of them being REI. One of the things that I love about REI is that they’re basically a one-stop shop for all your outdoor needs – from hiking boots to trail snacks to mountain bikes to GoPros. Getting a sale
Bent Basketball Rim From Dunking? Here’s 3 Ways To Fix It
Having your own basketball setup at home can offer hours upon hours of family fun and can help the basketball enthusiast in your family practice and master his or her game. In fact, many of the best basketball players in the world got their start with the game by shooting at an old rim in
Got Wide Feet? Try These Basketball Shoes For A Great Look On The Court
If you play basketball, either recreationally or competitively as part of a high school, college or semi-professional league, you already know the importance of a properly fitting basketball shoe, one that will cradle your feet and protect them as you make your way up and down the court. In the following article we have reviewed
How To Get Better At Basketball
If you have ever watched the high-flying, over-the-rim game of professional basketball you may find yourself wondering how these mere humans ever got to the point of being able to generate absolute awe night after night in the eyes and hearts of their many fans. The answer, which has nothing to do with super human
Snakes and Trail Running: What You Need to Know
We love trail running as much as you do. It’s a great way to practice a variety of skill sets, including long-distance runs, inclines, and declines. It’s softer on the legs than surfaces like tracks and concrete, provides ample shade and, in many cases, provides a water source like a stream or lake to take
Tips On Getting Good Golf Equipment
If you are smart about shopping, you could find affordable golf equipment, which are known to be expensive. Through this short article, you are going to learn the basics in relation to getting golfing equipment. At the same time, you will get to know the techniques of resting golfing supplies if you do not play
What Are The Different Types Of Climbing?
Asking someone “Do you climb?” doesn’t always have a simple yes or no answer. There are different types of climbing and some purists may turn their noses up at certain types of climbing to the point that they won’t recognise it as “climbing”. But, we live in an ever changing world where people are constantly
Beginners Guide To The 5 Types Of Belaying
Have you caught it? The climbing bug that is. You are probably needing to get the essentials (Don’t know what you need? Check this out). One of the vital pieces of gear is your belay device. Have you already gone to have a look at belay devices? Did you notice there are many types? Well
How To Choose The Right Climbing Shoes For Beginner and Intermediate Climbers
Are you needing to buy some shoes? Not sure where to start? Have you already got a pair but want to upgrade? Or maybe this is the first time you’ve heard that you need special shoes to climb? Either way – I’ve got your back! One of the first things you’ll be purchasing when starting
Just The Basics: What Gear You Need As A Beginner Climber
Let me guess, you’ve tried climbing for the first time recently, you’ve become hooked and now you want to scale all the mountains in the world?! Rather than sliding into others well lubricated shoes or having to rely on the generosity of other climber’s gear which can be become time consuming if you’re swapping gear
Beginners Guide To Climbing: The Basics To Getting Started
It was 2014, I was travelling through SE ASIA and I had met a bunch of Argentinians who lured me with their mate and good looks to travel with them through Cambodia. One night I notice one of them rigging a complicated hammock system in the rafters of our room (we were trying to fit
Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Best Minimalist Running Shoes For Beginners (2021)
So you’ve decided to nix the claims of increased performance and comfort of traditional running shoes and enter the world of barefoot or minimalist running. Like any other sport, minimalist running requires knowledge of the sport, consistent training, and the right equipment. As you begin your journey, we have prepared this minimalist running shoes guide
Ultimate Guide To Finding The Best Golf Bag (2021)
Believe it or not, there are actually several different types of golf bags available on the market today. Different golf bags have different purposes and it is important to buy yourself a golf bag that is not only appropriate for your local weather conditions, but that it also appropriate for holding all of the golfing
How To Get Better At Golf Without Lessons
One of the exciting parts about playing golf is that there is always room for improvement. Taking lessons with the golf pro can become prohibitively expensive; however, there are plenty of actions you can take on your own time with little or no cost to help improve your golf game. Here are our top tips
7 Ways To Get Better At Golf In The Winter
With the arrival of the winter season, golfing at your regular location is likely impossible. However, there are plenty of ways you can improve your golfing skills right from home, regardless of the weather outdoors. While you may not have the ability to get to your favorite course during the winter, you are able to
Rim Height and Ball Size: A Guide For Basketball Players of All Ages
Setting up a basketball goal for the driveway can be a simple or a complex as you like, depending on how seriously you want to take the activity. A home court is a great way to practice shooting, and to enjoy playing. Basketball is one sport that requires very little equipment – just a ball
Buying Guide: Shopping for The Best Basketball (2021)
What’s the difference in a basketball? As long as it has a good bounce and good grip, game on, right? Not quite. Let’s go over some of the things that you should consider when buying a basketball in our basketball buying guide below. We’ll also share some of our top picks when it comes to
Buying Guide: Choosing The Best Basketball Hoop For Home (2021)
Sports equipment and athletic stores and business carry many products to assist you in your goal of playing that perfect game of basketball. In choosing the right product for you and your family, you need to take into consideration if you want a fixed or a portable hoop. Are smaller kids going to be playing
Indoor vs Outdoor Running: Which Is Better?
Many runners have one question in common. Is running on a treadmill similar to running outdoors? Many people have their opinion, but scientific research reveals that running on a treadmill and running outside can be the same if you make a few adjustments on the treadmill. Running on a treadmill and running outdoors both have
10 Best Places to Go Canyoning in Europe
Canyoning, or canyoneering as it’s known in the U.S., is a combination of many sport activities put together. It generally incorporates one or more of the following: walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling, swimming and rappelling. Whew, it’s a long list of adventure designed to give you a one of a kind thrill. Canyoning is a
5 Best Places to Go Rock Climbing in East Asia for Intermediates
Once you’ve gotten used to climbing and safety techniques in an indoor rock climbing facility, you may be itching to try your skills outside in the real world. Even if you think you need more practice before you’re ready to tackle whatever nature has in store, there are plenty of established outdoor courses for both
8 Scenic Trail Runs For Your Weekend Travel Plans
With so many stunning trail runs around the world, it’s hard to nail down the best trails in a list that only includes eight locations. The best trails offer a mix of varied terrain, stunning views and sections that challenge your technical skills and fitness. Also, you need to think of other factors outside the run
Beginner’s Guide: Essential Gear For Trail Running (2021)
Picture vast landscapes, snow capped mountains and burbling streams. Fresh air, lack of noise, and in front of you… No one, not a single soul. Out on the trail, you feel free to push your body, the crunch of the leaves underfoot as you climb another ridge. Basking in the glory of the runners high, you start
5 Ways You Can Be A Tailgate Crasher
When money is tight, or if you just don’t have any buddies in town who like football, then crashing someone else’s tailgate party looks like a real good time. But, you don’t have to be cheap or lonely to go crashing other people’s tailgating – you can just like meeting and hanging out with new
5 Ways To Tailgate On A Budget
Even if you don’t have tickets to the game, tailgating can be expensive. And let’s face it, if you’re doing this every weekend, then those expenses really start to add up. For those of us on a budget, tailgating might be something that needs to be skipped. However, there are a few steps you can
Ideas: Tailgating Food Without A Grill
If you’re getting ready for the big game, then you might be planning the menu for your tailgating party. It’s you, some buddies and a spot outside the stadium. But you’re missing one thing – a grill. I know what you’re thinking – tailgating is all about throwing back some cold ones while grilling some
Horseback Riding Tips for Beginners
Your first time to ride on a horse can either be fun or horrible. That depends on how fit you are and how much willing you are to learn. If you think horseback riding is easy, think again. It requires so much strength to stabilize yourself on the back of a horse, even more so
Fun Outdoor Lawn Games for Adults
When the summer sun is out, the last thing that you want to do is spend time indoors. So, if you’re looking for ways to have a good time outside with family and friends other than just a cookout on the deck, then some fun lawn games might interest you. Often, you do not even
On The Court: Best Knee Sleeves For Basketball
For as long as I can remember, playing basketball has been one of my favorite ways to spend time outside. And my last fitness center has an indoor court that I spent a lot of time on, especially during those long, cold winter months. If you’re into basketball like me, then you already know how
Ever Heard Of The Sport Pickleball? It’s Not Just For Old People!
Just when I think that I have heard everything, I come across the weirdly named sport of pickleball. Maybe you’ve heard of it? Or, if you’re like me, then you’re wondering what the hell is pickleball and how do I play it? Well, apparently it was considered the fastest growing sport in America as recently
Buying Guide: Best Running & Cycling Hydration Packs For The Money (2021)
Whether you are into running, road cycling or something in between, one thing is certain – staying hydrated is essential. It can also be a bit of a pain though because when you plan on being out on a trail for the better part of a day, you need enough water that you’re not dehydrated,
Running and Cycling Headphones: Best Exercise Earbuds Reviewed
Whether I am inside spending some time on the treadmill or out doing a bit of cycling, I like to take my iPod with me so that I can listen to a little music while getting in my exercise. Countless studies have shown that listening to music while working out boosts your endurance and pacing,
Stuck Inside On A Rainy Day? Here’s Some Fun Activities
I’ve been spending the past couple of weeks in Scotland, which is great as there are lots of places to get outside and be active. In fact, I’m renting a place right next to a 76-acre park that is perfect for hiking, biking and running. Unfortunately though, most of my time spent here has been
The Mental and Physical Benefits of Rock Climbing
Have you ever thought to yourself, “I don’t feel healthy”? Have you ever had that exact thought, or one like it, even though you were healthy? And maybe you didn’t really feel like your mind was fit either? That was me a few years back not long after I broke a knee and spent the