Venice, Florida, isn’t just a destination; it’s an outdoor playground waiting to be explored. With its sun-kissed beaches, serene waterways, and lush nature preserves, the city offers an irresistible call to get outside and move. For snowbirds, this abundance of natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop to build an active, healthy lifestyle that’s both fun and fulfilling. Trading snow shovels for shoreline strolls is just the beginning.
Many people arrive in Florida looking forward to a more active life, but it can be hard to know where to start. It’s easy to fall into a comfortable but sedentary pattern. Yet, embracing the local landscape can transform your physical and mental well-being, turning your winter escape into a period of true revitalization. The key is to find activities you genuinely enjoy.
From the Sidelines to the Center Court: A Snowbird’s Story
Take David, a retired engineer from Wisconsin. During his first season in Venice, his activity level was at an all-time low. “I spent years looking forward to retirement,” he says, “but when I got here, my main activities were reading on the lanai and going out to eat. I felt stiff, my energy was low, and I was getting bored.” He knew he needed a change but felt intimidated by the idea of starting a new fitness regimen.
One afternoon, while driving past a local park, he saw a group of people playing pickleball. The court was full of laughter and friendly competition. “It looked like fun, not like a grueling workout,” David recalls. Feeling a spark of interest, he went online and ordered a beginner’s set of pickleball paddles. He convinced his wife to go with him to a park that offered free introductory lessons.
He was instantly hooked. The game was easy to learn, social, and provided a great workout without the high impact of tennis. Pickleball became his gateway to a more active life. He made new friends on the court and felt his energy levels soar. Inspired, he started exploring other activities. For his weekend adventures, he bought a pair of hiking poles to provide extra stability and support while exploring the uneven trails at Myakka River State Park.
To stay hydrated during his new pursuits, he made it a habit to carry a portable water bottle everywhere he went. “It’s a simple thing, but having water on hand during a long walk or a pickleball match makes a huge difference in the Florida heat,” he explains.
Today, David is more active than he’s been in decades. He plays pickleball three times a week, explores local trails, and feels more vibrant and connected to his community. “Getting active wasn’t about forcing myself to go to a gym,” he shares. “It was about finding fun things to do outside. I discovered that in Venice, staying active is a side effect of having a good time.”
Your Guide to an Active Outdoor Lifestyle in Venice
David’s journey shows that staying active is about finding joy in movement. Venice is filled with opportunities to do just that. Here are some popular activities and the gear that can help you get started.
1. Discover the Pickleball Phenomenon
It’s the fastest-growing sport in America for a reason. Pickleball is a fun, social, and accessible sport for all ages and fitness levels. It combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong and is played on a smaller court with a lower net.
- Why It’s Great for Snowbirds: The sport is easy on the joints, simple to learn, and incredibly social. Venice has numerous public courts at parks like Wellfield Park and Hecksher Park, making it easy to find a game.
- Gear Up: All you need to start is a good pair of court shoes and your own paddle. A starter set of pickleball paddles is an affordable investment and allows you to jump into the game right away.
2. Walk and Hike Your Way Through Natural Florida
Venice and its surrounding areas are home to stunning parks and preserves, offering trails for every ability. Walking is one of the best low-impact exercises you can do.
- Explore Local Trails: Stroll the scenic, paved paths of the Venetian Waterway Park or hunt for shark teeth along the shore at Caspersen Beach. For a more rustic experience, head to Sleeping Turtles Preserve North or Oscar Scherer State Park to walk among the pines and palms.
- Enhance Your Hike: For longer walks or hikes on uneven terrain, hiking poles are a fantastic tool. They improve balance, reduce stress on your knees and back, and engage your upper body for a more complete workout. They can give you the confidence to tackle more challenging trails.
3. Stay Hydrated for Peak Performance
In the warm Florida climate, proper hydration is not just important—it’s essential for your health and energy levels, especially when you’re active.
- The Dehydration Drain: Even mild dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and reduced performance. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink.
- Make it Easy: The best way to ensure you drink enough is to have water with you at all times. An insulated, portable water bottle will keep your water cold for hours, encouraging you to sip throughout the day. Look for one that’s lightweight and easy to carry, whether you’re on the pickleball court or a nature trail.
4. Embrace Activities on the Water
You’re in a coastal paradise, so why not take advantage of the water? Water-based activities are incredibly refreshing and offer a unique perspective on the area’s beauty.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway and Roberts Bay are perfect for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. You can rent equipment from several local outfitters. It’s a peaceful way to get a great core workout while watching for dolphins and manatees.
- Water Aerobics: If you prefer a more structured activity, check out the water aerobics classes at a local YMCA or community pool. The water’s buoyancy supports your body and reduces impact on your joints, making it an ideal workout environment.
Your Adventure Awaits
Your snowbird season is the perfect time to prioritize your health and well-being. Don’t let another beautiful day pass you by from the sidelines. Pick one activity that sparks your interest, start small, and find the fun in moving your body. You’ll not only feel physically better but also more deeply connected to the vibrant lifestyle that makes Venice so special.
Ready to build more healthy and fulfilling habits into your life? Our “New Year, New Routine” series is here to help. Check out our next article for more tips on creating your best season yet.
