You’ve been faithfully working out for a few weeks or months now, or maybe even longer. You’re seeing great results from exercise, you feel more energetic, and you’re happy with your progress overall. These are all positive outcomes. But on the negative side, you’re feeling a bit bored with your workout routine. Sometimes you really have to push yourself to get started, and you feel a bit less enthusiastic overall.
What if we told you there’s one simple change you could make, that would rejuvenate your workouts and help you feel more motivated to get going? It’s really very simple, but many people haven’t thought about it before: Take your workout outside!
Obviously, you can’t haul heavy gym equipment into your yard (that would be a workout of its own). But you can abandon the treadmill for a real-life walk or jog, swap the stationary bike for a regular one, or even grab your free weights and head out to the patio. You might even design a new workout, with a jump rope or some Pilates bands, or try out a new Youtube video via your phone or laptop. Most types of exercise can be adapted to the outdoors, and you’ll reap the following benefits:
Get more Vitamin D. Our bodies synthesize Vitamin D from sunlight, and most of us don’t get enough. This nutrient is important for building healthy bones, and might help to prevent problems such as diabetes and obesity. Sunlight also helps your body to regulate its circadian rhythms, so you can get better quality sleep.
Fight depression, anxiety, or simply the “workout blues”. Time spent outdoors can help you fight depression and anxiety. Or, if you simply feel less motivated to exercise these days, moving outdoors can feel rejuvenating.
Prevent boredom. Of course, the primary benefit to outdoor exercise is to prevent stagnation in your workout routine. If you always work out inside a gym, trying something new can help you switch up your regular program. You’re less likely to skip workouts or quit altogether when you keep things fresh and exciting.
As always, remember to consult with us before beginning a new workout routine. We can screen you for underlying problems that can make some forms of exercise dangerous for you. We can also help you put together a nutrition plan, if weight loss or maintenance is your goal, and help you stay motivated as you progress.
