When I first came to Palm Springs, I thought, "What kind of exercise can you do in the desert?"

However, after living here, my perspective completely changed. This city is not lacking in places to work out; rather, it's more about when you choose to exercise.

While the summer afternoons can be extremely hot, the early mornings and the period from October to April offer excellent weather for outdoor activities.

I would first recommend hiking. Palm Springs is right next to the mountains, so you can enjoy various trails without a long drive. The Museum Trail is a popular route that starts downtown and is about 3-4 miles round trip, making it a great option for exercise. Just a little way up, you can enjoy a refreshing view overlooking downtown Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley.

If you want a more intense workout, the Araby Trail is also a good choice. It has a decent incline, so you'll work up a sweat, but the desert scenery from the top is worth it. If you're with family, I recommend the Palm Canyon Trail inside Indian Canyons. There's a short course along a palm oasis that's easy to manage with kids. Tahquitz Canyon is also popular. A round trip of about 2 miles leads you to a cool waterfall, making it suitable for those new to hiking.

For biking enthusiasts, Palm Springs is a paradise. The roads are wide and flat, making it less intimidating for beginners. Especially, the route along Highway 111 towards Palm Desert is a favorite among local riders. There are also several bike rental shops in the city, making it easy to rent one during your visit.

If you enjoy tennis, be sure to check out Ruth Hardy Park. There are several free tennis courts where you can often see residents coming out with their rackets in the morning. Nearby Indian Wells hosts the world-renowned BNP Paribas Open, highlighting the area's strong tennis culture.

Swimming is also a must. Most hotels, condos, and gated communities in Palm Springs have pools. In the summer, swimming can be the most refreshing and enjoyable form of exercise. For those looking for a gym, there are several local fitness centers, including LA Fitness and 24 Hour Fitness, so finding one won't be difficult.

I have a favorite workout course of my own. It's taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to Mount San Jacinto State Park. While the desert can exceed 40 degrees, the summit is around 15-20 degrees, making it comfortable for walking even in summer. After taking the tram up and walking through the forest for an hour or two, you'll feel like you've entered a completely different world.

Ultimately, Palm Springs is not a difficult city for exercise; it's about choosing the right time to enjoy both the desert and the mountains. If you avoid the hot summer afternoons, you'll find that walking, hiking, biking, tennis, and swimming make it a surprisingly great environment for maintaining health after retirement.