Are you a native Vancouverite looking for ways to fulfil your 2017 fit resolutions while still having an exciting time? We've uncovered some of the most creative Vancouver outdoor workouts to launch 2017 on a good note – activities that are both exhilarating and beneficial for your health and wellness.

Vancouver Outdoor Workouts for 2017

Polar Bear Swim at English Bay

Ready to kick off 2017 with a splash – literally? Shine and shiver at the Polar Bear Swim at English Bay in downtown Vancouver. The 57th edition of this annual cold dip is taking place on Sunday, January 1st, 2017, from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. You can register to participate here. The health benefits of cold-water immersion? There are plenty, including improving the circulation of your lymphatic system – a system of vessels running throughout the body that cleanse and remove bacteria, reducing muscle inflammation, increasing your happiness and boosting weight loss.

Dragon Boating in Deep Cove

Looking for something competitive and fun to do when it comes to your fitness resolutions of 2017? Dragon boating, an ancient sport that dates back to the first Olympic Games in Greece, has maintained its competitive and community-based roots throughout the years. Deep Cove Kayak has a great dragon boating program launching in the new year. The benefits of dragon boating? It's physically demanding and combines both upper-body and trunk exercises while increasing a sense of mental wellness and community.

Trail Running at Cleveland Dam

Trail running is a great outdoor experience, especially if you want to immerse yourself in a community of like-minded runners. Open to beginners and advanced runners alike, plan on doing the Knee Knackering North Shore Trail Run at Cleveland Dam as part of your 2017 fit resolutions. The benefits of trail running? Because of the softer ground, trail running puts less impact on the legs and knees, helping to prevent injury. It is also great for increasing your balance and improving your ankle strength and stability.

Climbing at Lighthouse Park

Ready to rock 2017 with some rock climbing? Both exhilarating and rewarding, rock climbing is an excellent cardio and strength workout in one. Partner up or go in groups for a sense of community and increased safety – Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver is one of our favourite places to do this sport, providing a beautiful setting for your adventurous 2017 workouts. The benefits of climbing? Climbing is a great combination exercise that boosts heart rate, builds muscle and develops stamina. It also strengthens and tones muscles while improving flexibility and mental focus.

Biking at Whistler Mountain Bike Park

Are you a road cyclist looking to switch things up in the new year? Whistler Mountain Bike Park is one of the best mountain-bike parks in the world, drawing countless mountain bikers annually and guaranteeing an energetic, fun atmosphere for your day trip. The benefits of mountain biking? Because of the soft footing, mountain biking puts minimal stress on your joints, making it the perfect alternative to runners experiencing problems with their knees. We hope that 2017 will be full of wonderful Vancouver outdoor workouts and endless opportunities to exercise while taking in the beauty of the scenery of the city.