Experts agree that working out in nature offers a multitude of benefits that surpass those of indoor workouts. It’s not just about breathing in fresh air – being in nature can have a significant impact on your mental and physical health, while providing a more challenging and enjoyable workout experience. Here’s what medical and fitness professionals have to say about the advantages of outdoor exercise, along with a simple workout routine to get you started today.
Benefits of outdoor exercise:
1. Enhanced Vitamin D Absorption: Sun exposure produces vitamin D, which is essential for immune system support, bone health, and mood regulation. When you work out in nature, you get a dual benefit – exercise and vitamin D synthesis, which is also an anti-inflammatory antioxidant. Despite variations in absorption based on individual factors, experts recommend getting outside for sun exposure at least twice a week for sufficient vitamin D synthesis.
2. Increased Workout Challenges: Exercising in natural settings can intensify the physical challenge of your workout, depending on the terrain. For example, working out on a sandy beach or hilly area requires more energy exertion and muscle activation, ultimately improving balance. Research shows that outdoor exercise leads to more energy, happiness, and lower perceived exertion compared to indoor exercise.
3. Embrace Grounding and Earthing: Connecting with the earth through practices like earthing can reduce inflammation, pain, stress, and improve blood flow and sleep. Being grounded in nature can enhance mindfulness, gratitude, and mental well-being, offering a sense of peace and connection to the world around you.
4. Improved Sleep Quality: Exposure to natural light during the day coupled with regular exercise can regulate your body’s internal clock, leading to better sleep quality and an improved circadian rhythm. Spending time outdoors contributes to deeper, longer sleep patterns and may help reduce insomnia.
5. Enhanced Mental Health: Spending time in nature can boost mindfulness, gratitude, and overall mental well-being. Exercising outdoors can increase creativity, productivity, and positivity, while decreasing mental distress and providing a greater sense of purpose in life.
6. Cost-Effective and Accessible: Outdoor workouts are free and easily accessible, making it a budget-friendly option for staying active. Many parks offer workout equipment, and the sense of community and social interaction in outdoor settings can enhance your overall workout experience.
7. Fresh Air Intake: Exercising outdoors allows you to breathe in fresh air, which can improve energy production, muscle function, respiratory efficiency, and lung capacity. The cleaner air found in natural environments may reduce respiratory irritation and inflammation, making workouts more comfortable, especially for those with respiratory conditions.
In conclusion, working out in nature offers a multitude of benefits for both physical and mental health, providing a refreshing and invigorating workout experience that can enhance overall well-being. With the added bonus of being cost-effective and readily accessible, outdoor exercise is a fantastic way to stay active and connect with nature.
