Take Your Workout Outdoors!

Tired of sitting in your house? 

You should consider taking your workout outdoors as often as you can. Science suggests there are benefits to exercising outdoors that can’t be replicated on a treadmill, indoor track, or stationary bike. 

BENEFITS FOR EVERYONE: 

You’ll work out longer. The outdoor scenery will distract you making you less aware of your effort and the time you’re spending on a workout. As a result, you will burn more calories. Wind, hot or cold temperatures, and other external variables can cause you to burn an additional 5 to 7 percent more calories than exercising indoors. 

You’ll be happier. Breathing fresh air causes your body to release more endorphins, allowing you to feel more pleasant. With the release of endorphins, people can reduce risks of developing depression, decrease anxiety, and reduce mental fatigue.  People tend to have more energy and think more positively after exercising outdoors. You’ll also be able to think more clearly because being close to nature allows you to concentrate more with less stress. 

You’re less likely to get sick. Exercising outdoors supports your immune system. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air is two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Also, when the sun hits your skin, it creates vitamin D3, which is important for metabolic function, bone health, reducing blood pressure, and improving blood glucose levels. Sun exposure can also help you to sleep better at night. 

FOR RUNNERS: 

Your stride is different from running outside than it is inside. Studies have found that people flex their ankles more when they run outside. It is also hard to replicate running downhill, which stresses muscles differently than running on flat or uphill. In a study comparing exertion of running on a treadmill and running outside, researchers found that treadmill runners exert less energy to cover the same distance as people running outside because of hills and wind resistance. 

FOR CYCLERS:

The same can be said about energy expenditure and wind resistance for cyclists. If you want to burn as many calories as possible when cycling in a shorter amount of time, then you should go outside rather than pedaling on the stationary bike. 

Despite the fitness industry boom, doctors aren’t seeing changes in national physical activity level so gyms aren’t the answer for everyone. If the gym isn’t your scene, go outside and get your sweat on! For more information about workouts that aren’t in the gym, contact me: https://www.scottlathropfitness.com/payment-page/