Believe it or not, you don’t need to spend hours sweating it out in the wilderness to reap the rewards. According to Environmental Science and Technology journal, a mere five minutes walking in a green environment can work wonders for reducing stress and boosting motivation. Here are more reasons that may convince you to exercise outdoors:
Running Outside Burns More Calories
If torching calories is your primary fitness goal, then go for a park run rather than the monotony of a treadmill. Studies from Harvard Medical School indicate that the resistance provided by wind during outdoor running can increase calorie expenditure by up to 10%. Besides, running on the soft terrain of a park alleviates stress on your joints, compared to the harsh impact experienced on a treadmill.
You Can Work Out with Your Pet
For those who own a four-legged friend, you have an extra incentive to meet your exercise targets. Research conducted by Michigan State University reveals that dog owners are 33% more likely to achieve the recommended weekly exercise duration compared to the general population. Come rain or shine, dog owners are undeterred by inclement weather, as their furry workout buddies eagerly await their daily outdoor adventures. If you lack a canine companion, consider enlisting the aid of a personal trainer who can deploy the irresistible charm of puppy dog eyes to motivate you.
Escape the Indoor Epidemic
Indoor spaces dominate our lives, trapping us in a cycle of limited exposure to the natural world. A survey conducted by the University of California at Berkeley shockingly revealed that we spend a meager 7% of our time outdoors. To counteract this alarming trend, trade your lunchtime Twitter-scrolling session for a screen break and immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Just 10 minutes of outdoor activity can boost your creativity, as supported by findings published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology.
Have Friendly Rivalries Through Race Events
If you’re seeking an extra push to improve your 5K performance, nothing quite matches the exhilaration of healthy competition. According to a study published by SAGE Publications, engaging in a rivalry with your fellow runners can amplify testosterone levels, propelling you to new heights. Establishing a “loser buys the first round” policy can infuse the race with an added level of intensity, even if your competition isn’t your arch-nemesis.
Boost Confidence
Sometimes, it’s not about breaking personal records but rather cultivating a sense of self-assurance. If you’re chasing the elusive feel-good factor rather than striving for a personal best, opt for a leisurely stroll. Consider transforming your next brainstorming session into a Silicon Valley-esque power-walking meeting. Not only will this change of scenery invigorate your mind, but it will also provide a confidence upgrade.
Book an Outdoor Fitness Class
According to research conducted by the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry, men who partake in outdoor fitness classes derive greater enjoyment from their workouts compared to indoor gym sessions. Additionally, a study from Canada’s University of Sherbrooke indicates higher attendance rates for outdoor fitness classes, attributing this trend to the abundance of space and the absence of waiting lines. Escaping the stifling atmosphere of crowded gyms and repetitive chart-topping music can also do wonders for your workout morale.
Get Much Needed Vitamin D
Boost your vitamin D levels by scheduling outdoor workouts. The National Institutes of Health recommend spending five to thirty minutes outside, twice a week, to maintain optimum vitamin D levels. Aim for sessions between 11 am and 3 pm, when the sun’s rays are at their strongest. However, be cautious not to overexpose yourself, as no chiseled summer physique can compensate for a lobster-like complexion.
Shed More Pounds with Outdoor Workouts
Researchers at California Pacific Orthopedic and Sports Medicine discovered that men who engage in outdoor workouts shed, on average, half a stone more than their indoor counterparts. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts exhibited 6% less body fat. So, bid farewell to the treadmill and embark on nature’s weight loss journey while basking in the sun’s warm embrace.
Enjoy Longer Training Sessions
Swap the monotonous routine of the cross trainer for invigorating laps around your local park. The Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity reports that training outdoors can enable you to log an extra thirty minutes of exercise, equivalent to burning an additional 250 calories. This extended duration will propel you closer to your fitness goals while soaking in the beauty of your surroundings.
Boost Your Immune System
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature to strengthen your immune system. The International Journal of Immunopathology highlights a study indicating that inhaling trace amounts of airborne plant chemicals can enhance immune responses by a staggering 50%. So, venture into the great outdoors and experience the healing properties bestowed by Mother Nature.
Exercising in a modern gym like LA Fitness is great but it’s also nice to exercise outdoors from time to time.