There are many benefits of outdoor workouts, and some that are more obvious than others. Research shows that the fresh air, trees, grass, and natural environmental colors have a huge impact on mental health and physical well-being. In addition to being a great source of Vitamin D, there are many other benefits as to why you should exercise in the sun. Here are our 5 benefits of outdoor workouts!
Mental Benefits of Outdoor Workouts
Outdoor workouts provide a huge mental health boost that indoor gyms do not. Just by moving outdoors, you are reducing anger, tension, confusion, and depression, while also improving your mood. The exposure to vitamin D from the sun is partially responsible for this mood-enhancing effect, leaving you feeling more energized and revitalized. In addition, outdoor exercise can improve your self-esteem. Being near greenery and water are powerful esteem-enhancers, making you feel good with a relaxed mind. You’ll definitely find positive enjoyment, engagement, and satisfaction with outdoor activities!
You’ll Save Money
The next big factor of exercising outside is saving money. The outdoors is your gym, which provides you with a low-cost solution for exercise. Outdoor venues such as low-traffic neighborhood streets and local parks offer free space for physical activity and personal training. If you have a strong drive and motivation to reach your fitness goals, then exercising outdoors is a great option for you.
It’s Always Accessible
Many people don’t exercise because they don’t have access to a fitness center or equipment. The benefits of outdoor workouts is that they reduce these constraints. You have access to local hills, parks, streets, and tracks all around you that is ideal for any workout. Many outdoor areas also include benches, stairs, trees, inclines, and even designated exercise equipment, allowing for a variety of resistance-training exercises!
You’ll Burn More Calories
Wind resistance can actually help you burn more calories as you are running or cycling. You work harder to go against the wind, which works your muscles more. In addition, working out in an uncontrolled environment with uneven ground contributes to more calories being burnt. With a mix of high and cold temperatures, you’ll sweat more and make your body work twice as hard.
Connection With Mother Nature
One of the greatest benefits of outdoor workouts is your connection with Mother Nature. This includes interactions with your neighbors, yourself, and the places in your community. Exercising outdoors not only deepens your connection to the environment, but helps you feel more grounded. You truly enhance your appreciation for the beauty around you, and get to exercise in an array of settings. Furthermore, your body behaves differently when you’re in nature. It acts as a natural stimulus for your body to protect itself from disease, so being outside actually boosts your immune system.
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xoxo,
Faviana Team