Spring has sprung, and the summer adventure season is fast approaching. It’s that time of year when outdoorsy folk, in the northern hemisphere at least, start dusting off our boots / shoes / backpacks / bikes and making plans for some epic journeys. It’s been a long winter, and we are sooooo ready to go play outside.
Except there’s this one little issue: basically the whole world is quarantined, isolated, socially distanced, and just generally discombobulated. Though we all know the restrictions are necessary to save lives, and our canceled hikes and races and trips are nothing compared to what many people are facing right now, that doesn’t mean we have to like it.
In times like these, it helps to know we’re not alone. As people join together all over the world in an unprecedented level of global connection, the outdoor community is no exception. Many outdoor adventurers and athletes are finding ways to transform disappointment, frustration, and pent-up energy into creative training and exploration… and hilarious and amazing videos.
Some are humorous spoofs on the outdoor film genre, some are legitimately badass outdoor feats, and some offer inspiration for our own home training. All of them show us that we are not alone, and that we have no excuse to just sit on our butts and complain.
I hope this collection of videos, courtesy of outdoor athletes across a range of sports and disciplines, adds a touch of lightness and inspiration to your day. And when you’re done watching, check out these indoor activities for outdoor adventure lovers for even more inspiration. We CAN find ways to make the most of this situation.
Oh, one more thing. I shouldn’t have to say this, but, we are in the midst of a crisis in which the world’s medical systems are being severely overloaded. Don’t add yourself to the mix! Unless you are completely confident in your skills, don’t try this at home kids. Maybe just run laps around your living room while you watch these for fun.
Climbing and Skiing
I’ve been working on this problem today – very happy to top out into my bedroom! And, I’ve found a very exciting project for the future – watch this space…#StayAtHome #isolationmotivation #quarantraining@gb_climbing @SecurLtd @LifeFitWellness pic.twitter.com/4P7jlvRcKH
— Fred Williams (@fred_climbing) March 23, 2020
Just another gym-closed improv climbing wall, lol. Stay safe out there and stay home if you’re sick 😉 from r/climbing
Floor is lava – STAY AT HOME PARCOUR‼️🔥
— Andri ragettli (@Andriragettli) March 22, 2020
For every like I get, I will donate 1 cent to the World Health Organization (WHO) to support the fight against Covid-19.Please don’t try this at home, it was only made to entertain you!#StayAtHome #Parcour #FloorIsLava #WorkOut pic.twitter.com/tcYyejPetU
Many more excellent videos and pictures here at Rock and Ice.
Hiking and Backpacking
Trail and Road Running
— GBTH 🎗️ (@batchilleria) March 17, 2020
MTB, Cycling, and Bikepacking
More Outdoor Resources
Looking for more outdoor entertainment during your quarantine? Check out these popular posts:
- What you need to know about safe water filtration in the backcountry
- Should you be hiking in trail running shoes?
- Three of the best backpacking rain jackets, compared
Excited about backpacking but need help getting started? The Backpacking Trip Planner Workbook will help you start off on the right foot.


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