Could Outdoor Exercise Be The Key To Staying Healthy?
Most of us realise that exercise is one of the most important things we can do for our mental and physical health. However, exercising in a gym full of people isn’t often one of the most fun things to do – trying to get on a piece of popular equipment can be a nightmare, and mean you have to change your workout around until you feel like giving up. Maybe you’re not a fan of the treadmill slog, either. You might love the gym, and that’s cool – but this post isn’t for you!
This post is for those who want to exercise without a gym, or for those who just fancy a change. Good news: outdoor exercise could be the key to staying truly healthy. Here, we explain the benefits of outdoor exercise and how it could help you to become the best version of yourself. Read on to learn more!
A Changing Environment Can Mean A More Challenging Work Out
When you exercise outside, you usually get to enjoy a changing environment that can be stimulating to both mind and body. A changing environment can mean a more challenging work out, whether you’re running, cycling, or doing some resistance training in the park.
Of course, this doesn’t mean exercising outside isn’t without its downfalls. After all, accidents do happen. You can read this article on cycling injury compensation claims if you happen to get into some trouble while on your bike. Just make sure you wear the right gear for outdoor exercise (even if it means wearing a helmet), pay attention to your surroundings, and keep any music you listen to at a decent level so as not to completely block the world out. You’ll be much safer this way and able to enjoy the benefits of outdoor exercise to the fullest!
Your Daily Dose Of Vitamin D
When you exercise outside, you get your daily dose of vitamin D from sunlight. We all need a certain amount of this vitamin each day to be healthy and happy. Studies have even shown that people who are overweight are more likely to be deficient in vitamin D. You can take a supplement, but it isn’t quite the same as getting it from the great outdoors! If you opt for the supplement, BKC Buy Online capsules and powders is your best choice.
A Cleaner Source Of Air
Outdoor exercise is usually a cleaner source of air than indoor exercise at home or in gyms, especially if you live in a highly populated area. Most people don’t get enough fresh air everyday, so outdoor exercise is your perfect excuse.
Keep Your Mind Sharp
Exercising outdoors forces your to keep your mind sharp as you focus on the changing terrain surrounding you. It’s all too easy to switch off in the gym and become complacent, especially if you’re using one of the cardio machines!
Wind Resistance Could Help You To Burn More Calories
Wind resistance helps to give the body natural resistance when working out, and this in turn can help you to burn more calories. Whether you’re doing burpees in the park, cycling against the wind or running, you will likely burn more calories outside than you would in the gym.
Studies Suggest That It’s Better For Your Mood
Studies actually suggest that outdoor exercise is far better for your mood and mental health.
In one study, the researchers found that exercising outdoors was associated with greater feelings of the following:
- Revitalisation
- increased energy
- positive engagement
- decreases in tension, confusion, anger and depression
Participants in the study also reported greater enjoyment and satisfaction when they took part in outdoor activity. You might notice that you’re a far happier, healthier, positive person when you begin incorporating outdoor exercise into your routine.
Save Money On A Gym Membership
Not only could outdoor exercise be the key to staying healthy; it could be the key to saving money. Gym memberships can cost anywhere from £20-£50 per month and above, depending on the area and the type of gym you go to. Saving money will no doubt make you happier, and you can then put the money you’ve saved towards a healthier shopping trolley next time you go to buy food!
Turn It Into A Family Affair
Spending time with your family is key to your happiness and mental health, but it can be tough to spend quality time together without screens getting in the way. Outdoor exercise can easily be turned into a family affair when you go on group bike rides and hikes.
Outdoor exercise should be a part of everybody’s routine in one way or another!