Covid took us out of the busy gyms or exercise classes to the great outdoors, but we seem to have retreated back into the gym. It is great that we go to the gym and take regular exercise but the average person spends far too much time inside. Approximately 70% of our day is either inside a building or in a car. So, we should (literally)be jumping at the chance to exercise outside instead of exercising in an indoor space. Here are just a few reasons why we should get back outside.
Vitamin D – The sun’s UVB rays are vital for your body to absorb the correct amount of Vitamin D it needs as we cannot get this amount from food alone, also in the UK, we have a history of being deficient in it. So, we need sunlight to boost our levels.
Improves Mood – Being outside makes us happy, it boosts feelings of well-being and life satisfaction. This is again linked to vitamin D production as this process improves mood, promotes bone health, improves our immunity, and helps to reduce inflammation. Also just breathing the air has been shown to reduce stress and make us feel more relaxed.
Improves Self-esteem – Just a few minutes outside a day can help boost your self-esteem. If you add exercise to this the boost is even greater. If you can make this a part of your weekly routine, you will start to feel better about yourself.
It’s Easy, Local, and Free – Going to your local park or just going into your garden costs nothing and is close to your house so more convenient that the gym. If you do not have a garden try to find somewhere to exercise with lots of sunlight and trees, away from built-up areas. Any time outside is beneficial, but you’ll notice the effects far more when you are in a natural setting.
If you need some help and motivation with your outdoor exercise, book a personal trainer from Arbrook PT. We offer free initial consultations and have some of the best personal trainers available in Esher, Cobham, Walton-on-Thames, Surbiton, Hounslow, Greenwich and surrounding areas
