- Increasing vitamin D exposure which helps strengthen bones and muscles, and boosts immunity
- Providing a greater challenge to increase workout intensity
- Allows for social interaction with others, providing motivation and accountability while making new friends
- Possible locations to exercise outdoors include: the backyard, local park, beach, or lake
- Taking your workouts outside this spring season benefits both physical and mental health.
As the weather gets warmer, you may consider ways to take your workout routine to the next level by exercising outdoors. We all know that exercise is excellent for our physical and mental health. But did you know that additional benefits are associated with working out outside? Here’s a breakdown of why exercising outdoors can help you reach your fitness goals faster.
The Benefits of Outdoor Exercise
It’s apparent that exercising outdoors offers a unique environment that can be both beneficial and enjoyable. Research shows that outdoor exercises are more likely to help you reach your personal fitness goals faster due to the various benefits associated with it, such as:
Mood-Boosting Effects
One of the key benefits of exercising outdoors is boosting your mood. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression levels. So, if you’re feeling down or overwhelmed, take your workout outside and enjoy some quality time in nature. You’ll be surprised at how much better you feel after just a few minutes of the fresh air.
According to the American Psychological Association, outdoor exercise can also help to improve concentration and focus. This is because the environment offers a distraction-free setting that encourages mindfulness and relaxation.
Physical Benefits
Exercising outdoors also has physical benefits. For one thing, outdoor workouts can burn more calories than indoor workouts because they require more effort due to factors like wind resistance and uneven terrain. Additionally, working out outside exposes you to additional vitamin D from sunlight which helps strengthen bones and muscles while boosting immunity.
Finally, running or cycling on an outdoor track or trail gives you access to hills and another natural terrain which can further increase the intensity of your workout and provide a greater challenge than what you might experience indoors on a treadmill or stationary bike.
Social Interaction
Finally, one major benefit of exercising outdoors is that it allows for social interaction with others who are also taking advantage of the great outdoors for their own fitness needs. Whether it’s participating in group hikes or playing pickup basketball games at local courts, exercising outside provides an opportunity for people to come together over shared interests while improving their physical health.
Moreover, exercising outdoors with others can help to keep you motivated and accountable while also providing an opportunity to make new friends in your community. This allows you to expand your social circle while progressing toward your fitness goals.
Where to Exercise
Now that you know the many benefits of outdoor exercise, you may be wondering where to go get started. Here are some suggestions:
Backyard
Exercising outdoors does not necessarily mean leaving your house. You can get a great workout in your own backyard! If privacy is a major concern for you, talk to a fencing contractor that can help you erect a fence around the perimeter of your yard for added security.
You can also set up outdoor gyms, such as pull-up bars and other fitness equipment that can be used in your home’s comfort (and safety).
Local Park
Consider visiting a local park if you want to get out of the house but stay relatively close. Most parks offer wide open spaces perfect for running or playing sports. Most also have dedicated walking trails with scenic views and plenty of places to sit and rest. Consider inviting a few friends to join you and turn your outdoor workout routine into a fun time! This is the perfect time to enjoy nature and get some exercise at the same time.
Beach or Lake
If you live near a beach or lake, take advantage of the beautiful scenery and get in a workout there. Swimming is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that can be done on your own or with others. The shoreline also provides easy access for jogging, walking, and other outdoor activities.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, there are numerous benefits associated with exercising outdoors—from mood boosting effects to physical gains such as increased calorie-burning potential—that make it worth taking your workouts outside this spring season! Your physical body isn’t the only thing that stands to benefit from outdoor exercise; your mental health will too. So grab your sneakers, get outside and start moving!
