The benefits of exercise are well known as well as the idea of having a balanced diet. Nevertheless, there are a number of individuals who do not engage in any sort of physical activity. Reasons for doing so range from those who simply find it boring to others who just do not have the time. This blog explores the benefits of outdoor workouts with the intention of inspiring a healthier lifestyle.
Helps combat depression
Doing a workout outside and getting some fresh air can help the individual alleviate low moods. Locally, we have the benefit of having mostly good weather. This is beneficial because exposure to sunshine releases serotonin which is a chemical that alleviates one’s mood. Additionally, exercise itself releases endorphins which is a hormone that not only improves one’s mood but also reduces pain (Piedmont Healthcare, 2022).
Possibly make it a social event
If boredom is your problem, invite some friends and make it fun. Whether it is an outside session of Pilates, yoga or simply going for a jog or run, having friends do it with you can be more entertaining. Additionally, this can also help with support and motivation in maybe pushing a bit harder. Other ideas can be family walks or bicycle rides rather than sitting on the sofa (Piedmont Healthcare, 2022).
Greater commitment
A workout outside tends to feel less like a workout hence one is more likely to commit to the training. Moreover, it seems that one’s body is naturally more challenged when working outdoors. This is because indoor workouts are constant while outdoor workouts have varying factors such as uneven flooring and weather conditions (Piedmont Healthcare, 2022).
Free workout
Going on walks, bicycle rides or forming a group to engage in an outside workout is completely free of change. One simply needs a safe space to carry out the workout (Piedmont Healthcare, 2022).
Flexible location
This is an advantage because considering the hectic life that we live, one is more likely to engage in some sort of workout when the location is flexible. For example going for a walk near one’s home, on one’s work break or with one’s family doesn’t really make a difference. The importance lies in having a spacious place to do so. Additionally, this in itself makes it more interesting and hence also encourages further commitment.
Finally, outdoor workouts release stress and tension. In itself, the thought of working out can be stressful and hence it is essential to make workouts as enjoyable as possible as this does improve commitment and reduces tension (Piedmont Healthcare, 2022).
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Yasmine Bonnici graduated in Nursing and also completed her Masters in Counselling. She has worked with victims of domestic violence, clients dealing with suicidal ideations, bereavement, separation and anxieties. She is currently working with Willingness Team as a counsellor seeing clients who would like to explore their own identity and deal with any surfacing issues.
Bibliography
Piedmont Healthcare (2022) 7 health benefits of outdoor exercise , 7 health benefits of outdoor exercise. Available at: https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/7-health-benefits-of-outdoor-exercise (Accessed: December 12, 2022).