Now that winter is officially over and spring is here, it is time to thaw out of our frozen slumber and enjoy nature again. With the plants starting to bloom and the days getting longer, now is the best time to take your fitness routine outside. There are so many benefits to exercising outside, compared to working out indoors. Outdoor exercises can make you feel better and work harder, it can lower your blood pressure, help improve your mental health, and is ultimately a great cost cutting method.
Venturing outdoors can be as good for your heart as it is for your mood. Spending even 30 minutes a week in parkland settings has been linked to lower blood pressure and improved cardiac health. This connection could be due to fresh air and reduced stress levels, key factors in controlling hypertension (high blood pressure). It is also shown that when people exercise outside, they tend to spend more time exercising. Adding at least 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per week compared to their indoor-exercising counterparts. And it’s not just our bodies that benefit from an outdoor workout. The effects on our mental health are profound. Studies have indicated that exercising in natural settings can help ward off the spiral of negative thoughts known as rumination—often linked with depression and burnout. Best of all, exercising outdoors eliminates the need to pay monthly gym fees.
With warmer temperatures and extended daylight, there are a few outdoor activities that you can do to invigorate your spring fitness routine. For example, trail running can help you escape the monotony of the treadmill by hitting the trails this spring. It offers a dynamic cardio workout that fosters agility and core strength, with a shifting landscape that keeps both mind and body alert. Cycling can help you feel the rush of the wind and the exhilaration of pedaling across town or country. Cycling in the spring awakens the senses and provides a versatile workout that can be as leisurely or intense as desired. And for those who prefer a slower pace, hiking not only gives you exceptional views and physical challenge but also presents opportunities for reflection, connection with nature, and even social bonding if done in groups.
With the arrival of spring, we have a unique opportunity to enhance our physical, mental, and emotional well-being by taking our exercise routines outdoors. By engaging in activities like trail running, cycling, and hiking, we can experience the myriad benefits of outdoor fitness. More enjoyable exercise sessions, cardiovascular and mental health advantages, cost savings, and the natural enchantment of the world around us.
For more information on why spring is a great season to workout outside, click here.
Article written by William Graves.