Remember when you made a resolution to workout more? Well, if you’re sticking to it, kudos. If not, summer is here and it’s the best time to revive that promise to yourself by exercising outdoors while enjoying the pleasant weather.
Getting regular exercise helps prevent heart disease and other chronic illnesses. And guess what? You don’t need a gym membership. All you need is Mother Nature and a few enjoyable activities to get you going. Just remember, conduct outdoor activities early in the morning or close to twilight to avoid hot temperatures. Whether it’s yoga, walking, running, biking or hiking, the benefits of outdoor exercise — sometimes called green exercise — are too hard to pass up. Here are some benefits:
Elevate your mood
Outdoor exercise exposes you to sunlight and naturally increases your serotonin, the feel-good hormone that reduces feelings of depression and anxiety. In addition, your body releases endorphins when you exercise, which naturally reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression and can elevate your mood.
It challenges your body
When you’re active outdoors, the environment constantly forces your body to navigate the ever-changing terrain that’s full of obstacles, declines, inclines, rocks, bumps and holes. When you have to constantly adjust to the terrain, it pushes your muscles and cardiovascular system harder, ultimately leading to a productive workout.
It’s free
Forget about paying that costly gym membership when all you have to do is head outside for the perfect location to exercise. All of the outdoor activities are outside your door step and you don’t have to break your wallet. It can’t get any better than that, right? Whether it’s a park, a hiking trail or your neighborhood sidewalk, break free, breathe in the fresh air and have a little fun outdoors.
For more about the benefits of outdoor exercise, visit the American Council on Exercise at acefitness.org.
MESSA Wellness can provide helpful tips or exercise programs to get you started. Visit messa.org/wellness for inspiration.