Outdoor Fitness: Rediscovering Nature's Role in Health and Wellbeing

Outdoor fitness has become a big deal for many people, especially since the pandemic started. A 2021 article by People Magazine reported that according to a survey, nearly three in five Americans have switched from being "indoor people" to "outdoor people," adding about 22 minutes a week to their outdoor activities. Their main reason was to get a break from being cooped up inside their homes.

However, the benefits of outdoor exercise extend far beyond the simple joy of escaping familiar walls. In this article, we’ll take a look at:

The four ways outdoor exercise helps with our wellness; and
How to incorporate outdoor fitness in everyday life.

If you’ve been looking to incorporate exercising outdoors, this article is a must-read!

The benefits of outdoor fitness

Outdoor workouts do more than just get you fit. They're a fun way to change up your exercise routine, feel happier, and get closer to the outdoors. Let's see how getting active outside can make a difference.

Physical benefits

According to UC Davis, outdoor activities, whether running, cycling, or even a brisk walk in the park, can significantly improve cardiovascular health. You’ll also soak up vitamin D from the sunshine which is essential for strong bones and prevention of various diseases. But the benefits don't stop at these.

Unlike the flat surface of a treadmill, the varied terrain and natural resistance of the outdoors demand more from your muscles, leading to increased strength because of more engaged muscle groups. And when it comes to weight management, outdoor workouts can be incredibly effective. A study by the American Hospital Association shows that doing outdoor activities can burn more calories than similar exercises done indoors and make your fitness goals more achievable.

In short, if you want to make your workout count, stepping outside could be the key. Not only do you get to enjoy the beauty of nature, but your body also reaps the benefits of a more engaging and varied exercise routine.

Mental health enhancements

The mental health benefits of outdoor fitness are profound and well-documented, offering a natural remedy to the stresses of daily life. For instance, a study found that participants with depression felt more active and had better moods after outdoor exercise compared to indoors. Another study showed that people who exercised near water had better self-esteem and mood.

One more way exercising outdoors helps is that it reduces anxiety. The natural setting helps release endorphins, chemicals in your body that improve your mood and act as natural painkillers. This effect is enhanced by the physical activity itself, which increases mental and physical energy, contributing to an overall sense of well-being.

Connection to nature

The concept of biophilia suggests that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life. Coined by Harvard naturalist E.O. Wilson, biophilia means that people naturally want to connect with nature and living things. It posits that we feel better and healthier when we're around plants, animals, and natural environments.

Although not universally accepted as a proven scientific theory, biophilia has been explored across different fields, with its meaning and significance interpreted in various ways. In the context of outdoor exercise, the biophilic principle gains practical application. Engaging in physical activities outdoors does more than just benefit our physical health; it taps into this deep-seated affinity for nature, enhancing the mental and emotional rewards of exercise.

This interaction with the natural world during exercise not only reduces stress and improves mood more effectively than indoor workouts but also aligns with our biophilic tendencies, offering a holistic approach to health that nurtures both body and mind. Thus, even though the concept of biophilia may vary in interpretation, its application in outdoor exercise exemplifies the profound impact that connecting with nature can have on our overall health and well-being.

Ecotherapy

One more benefit of outdoor fitness is that it is ecotherapy in action. Ecotherapy harnesses the healing power of the outdoors to improve your mental and physical well-being. It involves activities like gardening, forest bathing, or simply spending time surrounded by trees and greenery.

This approach means that outdoor fitness not only keeps you physically fit but also taps into nature's healing effects. It's a way to enjoy the psychological benefits of being outdoors, such as improved mood and reduced anxiety, without needing to explicitly focus on them. Essentially, outdoor fitness leverages the natural environment to enhance your well-being in a holistic way, making every outdoor workout a step towards better mental health.

Incorporating outdoor fitness into daily life

Transitioning to an outdoor fitness regimen can seem hard at first, especially if you're used to indoor workouts or have a busy schedule. However, it’s simpler than it might appear and incredibly rewarding. Here are some easy ways to get moving outside:

Walking: A quick walk around your neighborhood or park can easily fit into any part of your day. Wear proper shoes for walking like the New Balance 990v5 to support your feet and avoid any discomfort or injuries.
Cycling: Use your bike for a fun workout, whether commuting or exploring local paths.
Yoga in the park: Look for outdoor yoga classes in your area. If, for example, you live in Los Angeles, there’s a lot on Yelp. It's a peaceful way to exercise and connect with nature.

Overcoming barriers

Want to do outdoor exercises but feel like you don’t have time, or you’re in an area with limited natural spaces? Here are some solutions:

If you feel like you’re too busy to have dedicated time to exercise, try integrating fitness into your daily routine in small ways. A walk during your lunch break, biking to work, or a quick jog in the morning can make a big difference. Even short bursts of activity add up over the week.
If you live in an urban area, look for local parks, community gardens, or waterfronts. Urban trails and rooftop gardens can also provide a green escape. Additionally, indoor plants and small balconies with greenery can bring the benefits of nature into your home.
Weather can be unpredictable and sometimes discouraging. Dress appropriately for the conditions—light layers for cooler weather and breathable fabrics for the heat. Also, consider indoor alternatives that still connect you with nature, like indoor climbing walls or swimming in an indoor pool with large windows facing outdoors.

Conclusion

If you've been thinking about taking your workouts outside, this article has hopefully convinced you how easy and beneficial it can be. Getting active outdoors isn't just good for your body; it's great for your mood and mind. From a quick jog in the park to a bike ride around your neighborhood, there are so many ways to make nature part of your fitness routine.

So, if you're ready to mix up your workouts and enjoy all the perks of being outside, there's no better time to start than now. Remember, every step outside is a step towards a healthier, happier you. Lace up those sneakers and step into the welcoming outdoors.