Are you looking for a way to add some variety to your fitness routine? If so, consider taking your workout outside! Exercising outdoors has many benefits, from being more enjoyable than exercising indoors to being more beneficial for your physical and mental health. In this blog post, we’ll cover the top seven benefits of getting your sweat on outside. So grab your running shoes, find a nearby park, and let’s get started!
1) Sunshine is Good for You
The sun is an incredible source of energy and nourishment for the human body. It can help increase your vitamin D levels, which are essential for bone health and the immune system. Sun exposure also boosts serotonin, a hormone that helps you feel happier and more alert. Additionally, studies have found that sunlight can reduce inflammation and even help prevent some forms of cancer. Taking a break from your indoor routine to get some sun will do wonders for your overall health and wellbeing.
2) You'll Get a Better Workout
Outdoor exercise has been shown to provide a much better workout than indoor exercise. When you exercise outdoors, you are able to take advantage of the natural terrain, which can provide more challenging obstacles and different terrains than found in a gym or fitness studio. Additionally, outdoor activities such as running, cycling, and hiking often require more balance and coordination than machines or weight lifting. This type of activity can help you build strength, endurance, and agility—all important factors for any workout. Outdoor activities also tend to be less repetitive than indoor ones, so you can keep your body guessing and challenge yourself with new exercises.
3) You'll Burn More Calories
Outdoor exercise has numerous benefits, and one of the greatest is that you'll burn more calories than if you were exercising indoors. This is because the natural elements like wind and terrain can create extra resistance and make your workout more challenging. You'll also be exposed to more extreme temperatures which can further increase your calorie burn. For example, when you run or walk in hot weather, your body will have to work harder to cool down and regulate its temperature. Plus, if you're participating in activities such as kayaking or hiking up a mountain, you'll be using muscles that you wouldn't normally engage in an indoor gym setting. All of these factors combined can help you achieve a higher calorie burn, so if weight loss is your goal, outdoor exercise can be a great way to get there!
4) You'll Be Less Stressed
One of the most overlooked benefits of outdoor exercise is its potential to reduce stress levels. A few minutes of fresh air and sunlight can do wonders for your mental health. The combination of being outdoors and getting physical exercise is a natural stress reliever. Studies have shown that physical activity releases endorphins, which are hormones that make you feel good and reduce feelings of stress. Being outside in nature can also help to relax your mind and clear away worries or negative thoughts. The beauty of the outdoors can help you to take your mind off of your daily problems and focus on something more positive. Plus, the peacefulness of being outside can help you to find inner peace and quiet.
5) You'll Be More Productive
Outdoor exercise has been proven to boost productivity and help people reach their goals. Studies have shown that time spent outside increases creativity, focus, and problem-solving skills. You'll also be better equipped to handle difficult tasks and stay on top of any deadlines you might have. In addition, outdoor exercise encourages positive thinking and helps to clear the mind of distracting thoughts, allowing you to stay more productive throughout the day.
6) You'll Sleep Better
Getting your sweat on outdoors has been proven to help you sleep better. When you exercise outdoors, your body is exposed to natural light and Vitamin D, both of which can help regulate your circadian rhythm. Additionally, the physical exertion from outdoor exercise helps tire out your body, making it easier for you to settle into a peaceful sleep. Studies have shown that those who exercise outdoors have better overall sleep quality compared to those who exercise indoors. Whether it’s a leisurely walk in the park or a rigorous jog in the woods, the fresh air and calming environment of the outdoors will help you to rest peacefully at night.
7) You'll Be Happier
Exercising outdoors has been scientifically proven to boost your mood. A study conducted by the University of Essex found that even just five minutes of outdoor exercise can have a positive impact on happiness and well-being. In fact, the research showed that people who exercised outdoors felt a 20 percent increase in happiness when compared to those who exercised indoors. This could be because of the natural sunlight and fresh air that come with being outside. Exercising outdoors may also help to alleviate symptoms of depression and stress, due to the natural beauty that often comes with spending time outside. Additionally, being in nature and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors can give you a much-needed break from the everyday hustle and bustle of life. So if you're looking for a quick way to get a mental boost, going outside for a jog or a walk is the perfect solution!
