Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good health, but do you know exercising outdoors can provide additional benefits? Whether running, cycling, hiking, or practising yoga in a park, outdoor exercise can be a great way to stay fit and reap the rewards of spending time in nature.
However, in this blog, we’ll explore five excellent benefits of outdoor exercise that you may not have considered.
Improved Mental Health
Exercise has been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. But the benefits of outdoor exercise go beyond just physical activity. Spending time in nature can improve your mood and reduce stress levels, making outdoor exercise a great way to boost your mental health.
According to an Environmental Science and Technology study, just 5 minutes of movement in a green space can improve self-esteem and mood.
Increased Vitamin D Intake
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that helps our bodies absorb calcium and maintain strong bones. When we can get vitamin D from certain foods and supplements, the best source is sunlight. Exercising outdoors is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamin D. This can help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like osteoporosis and heart disease.
More Varied Workouts
Indoor workouts can get boring after a while, but outdoor exercise provides endless opportunities for variety. Whether hiking up a mountain, cycling through a scenic route, or practising yoga in a park, outdoor workouts can challenge your body in new ways and keep you engaged and motivated.
Increased Energy Levels
Spending time in nature can boost your energy levels and reduce fatigue. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that spending just 20 minutes in a park was enough to boost energy levels and reduce feelings of fatigue. Combine that with the physical benefits of exercise, and you have a recipe for increased energy and improved productivity.
Improved Immune System Function
Exercising outdoors can also help improve your immune system function. According to national Library of Medicine, spending time in nature can increase the activity of natural killer cells, which are responsible for fighting off viruses and cancer cells in the body.
However, outdoor exercise provides numerous benefits that can improve both physical and mental health. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, incorporating outdoor exercise into your routine can provide a colorful change of scenery and boost your overall well-being. So next time you’re considering a workout, why not head outside and enjoy all that nature offers?
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Md. Sazid Alam
Intern
Content Writing Department
YSSE