Spring is officially here! And there’s nothing quite like a day spent outdoors getting fresh air and sunshine after a long winter. Spring is also the best time to move your workout routine out into nature to reap all the benefits.
Exercising outdoors has proven to enhance vitamin D levels, which may improve mood, promote bone health, and support immune system function.
But that’s not the only healthy reason to move your body outside. Let’s dive into a few more benefits of exercising alfresco:
It’s a natural mood booster. Outdoor exercise this spring can potentially help ward off any lingering winter blues that are hanging around. Why’s that? Well, sunshine naturally increases serotonin, a hormone that affects your mood. Additionally, exercise itself produces feel-good endorphins and hormones that can elevate your mood.
You'll actually enjoy it. Getting outside to work out often doesn’t feel as taxing as, say, running on the treadmill in your basement. You’re more inclined to keep at your workout if you’re greeted with sunrise on your morning run or bike to your favorite cafe for breakfast. Enjoying your workouts is an essential element of success. It’s often said, “the best type of exercise is the one you’ll do most often.”
It provides mental relief. Many people feel a lot of pressure to work out and maintain a healthy/active lifestyle. We think that working out should be something fun that you want to do simply to feel better and support your body’s health. And outdoor exercise is more enjoyable when it feels like play rather than a chore or to-do list item.
It’s free. All you need to get a fantastic outdoor workout is you! Sure, you may also be able to find a track, trail, park, field, court, mountain, ocean, lake, etc. for your workout. Regardless, no expensive gym membership is required!
It can be a bonding experience. Bring your significant other, family, or friends along for your walk, bike or swim! Additionally, you can find recreational sports leagues to join with your friends, such as kickball or softball. Joining a team can help you stay consistent and bring back those feelings you had as a kid playing outside.
Of course, before heading outside to exercise, wear your sunscreen, supportive walking shoes, and bring plenty of water! We promise you’ll love the sunshine, stress relief, and fresh air. We also encourage you to supply your body with proper vitamins and minerals post-workout.
