Benefits of exercising outdoors

The main benefits of exercising outdoors and what precautions you should take when choosing to exercise.

Open-air gymnastics: have you ever thought about the pleasure of taking care of your health by breathing fresh air and being in contact with nature? The routine of indoor physical activities often discourages practitioners. It’s only natural for boredom to strike, especially for those who like the feeling of novelty with every workout. In addition to exercising the body, the activities also provide moments of leisure. But it is important to be careful, training in open places cannot be carried out in any form.

Why train outdoors?

Overall, the practice of physical exercises improves physical conditioning, maintenance of body functioning and well-being. So having a healthy routine also involves keeping your body moving. These benefits can be enjoyed by anyone, indoors or outdoors, who chooses to engage in physical activities according to each person’s reality. So why choose outdoor exercise? In addition to all the benefits mentioned above, training of this nature allows our body to get in touch with the environment and all its organisms. As a result, we can renew our energies with a sense of freedom. From a scientific point of view, outdoor physical activity also stimulates the production of vitamin D through exposure to the sun. It is responsible for regulating the body’s absorption of calcium and phosphorus, keeping the brain functioning, and also strengthening bones and muscles.

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What are the main benefits of training outdoors?

Stimulating the production of vitamin D is already a great benefit of practicing physical activity outdoors, but it’s not the only one. We’ve listed other benefits you should consider when choosing to exercise outdoors. Check it out:

Increased caloric expenditure

There are physical activities done outdoors – such as running on uneven terrain or trails – that contribute to calorie loss. These exercises, performed outdoors, bring an extra challenge precisely because they are performed in places that require different adaptations. For example, running on a treadmill helps burn calories, right? However, your running level will be much the same – the most you can do is increase the speed or incline of the device. However, when you run outside, do other movements during the exercise. Also for climbing high or making an effort to control the descent on a slope. Thus, the calorie expenditure can become much greater outdoors and more challenging.

mood improvement

Nature has a relaxing effect, we can’t deny that. Therefore, the practice of physical exercises outdoors is also related to improved mood and stress. When we are outdoors, we have the opportunity to feel the wind, find natural beauty and feel part of that environment. This, added to the practice of physical activity itself, allows our body to release endorphins which contribute to the feeling of happiness and well-being. Exposure to nature also impacts mental health, helping to reduce levels of anxiety and depression. But keep in mind that each person feels a different impact, depending on their preferences and experiences in different situations.

dynamism and motivation

Training in different outdoor environments means that your training routine always has variety. This dynamism makes training more interesting and, consequently, brings more motivation to those who are trying to maintain healthy habits. After all, walking, running, cycling or playing sports in natural settings can be more inspiring than working out indoors. Leaving the “stone jungle” and seeking out nature can be invigorating.

Socialization

Outdoor activities allow you to meet other people and even make important friends. It’s an opportunity to find someone who has an affinity for that environment, like you. As you will usually meet different people, it is still an opportunity to develop communication and other social skills. Not to mention the diversity of external physical exercises that can be done in groups. Contribute to the creation and strengthening of a community.

What exercises to practice outdoors?

There are several exercises that can be practiced outdoors. The important thing is to choose an activity that is enjoyable and generates identification. Knowing the limits of the body is essential. Do not select a physical activity that could worsen or cause a health problem. Among the activities you can practice outdoors, we point out:

• Walk;
• Competition;
• Functional training;
• Cycling;
• Yoga;
• Rope workouts;
• Go upstairs;
• Soccer;
• Beach volley.

These are just some of the activities that can be developed within practices that use nature as the main scenario. There are several initiatives that envisage integration with the territory in which it operates.

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Precautions during outdoor exercise

Despite all the benefits enjoyed by those who choose to engage in outdoor activities, not everything is just a benefit. There are essential precautions to ensure the safety, health and well-being of people who include outdoor activities in their routine.

Choose a safe place

One of the most important points is to choose safe places. Whether it’s a park, a beach, a square or an athletics track, look for a place where you can do your exercises without fear. This also includes the need to have minimal support to carry out the training. For example, if you choose to cycle, it is essential to carry out the activity on a cycle path. Also avoid very dark places or places with little movement.

Use the proper equipment

Depending on the activity, wear safety gear, such as a bicycle helmet or roller skates, knee and elbow pads. Also, don’t forget to wear sunscreen to protect your skin from damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. Also opt for light clothes, but covering the areas exposed to the sun. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes. It’s also important to stay hydrated at all times, so always carry your water bottle with you.

Bring an identifying feature

Always carry a cell phone in case of an emergency or an ID bracelet with related medical information. Also be aware of the body’s signals and do not exceed the limits for physical exertion. Whether it’s indoor or outdoor physical activities, it’s always important to also have the support of a professional. This prevents you from getting injured and allows you to make the most of the benefits of physical activity. Also remember that consulting a doctor before starting any exercise program can help to ensure you choose the activities that best suit your profile and physical condition. Don’t put yourself at risk, consult your doctor!

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.