Why you should keep training outside during the winter months?
Autumn maybe on its way but that doesn't mean exercise should move inside. The benefits of getting regular exercise are well known but working out outdoors gives you even more benefits. When I was injured last winter I not only missed training but I also missed being outside, being with nature and feeling the fresh air. I find its very therapeutic. Here is a list of the extra benefits you gain when exercising outside:
1. It’s good for your mind and your body.
A large study found that outdoor exercise was associated with increased energy and revitalization, as well as decreased confusion, anger, depression and tension, when compared with exercising indoors. Outdoor participants also reported enjoying their workouts more and said they were more likely to repeat them than participants who trained inside.
2. It may make you feel better about yourself.
No need to feel self conscious outside, regular outdoor exercise has been proven to boost your self esteem.
3. Soak up the sunshine benefits (even in winter).
When the sun hits the skin, it creates vitamin D3 which is jmportant to bone health and metabolic function. Extra exposure to sunlight during the day can also help you sleep better at night, improve immune function and increase endorphin production.
4. You can burn more calories when you exercise outside.
Resistance from the wind when running or cycling outdoors means you often burn more calories than if you were indoors and hills/uneven ground make your body work harder as it has to respond to the unknown.
So there's a few reasons to put on a few extra layers and keep moving. If your interested in any outdoors sessions please email:
Half_timefitness@hotmail.com
Heather Taylor BSc
Health and Wellbeing Physiologist, Personal Trainer, Sports Masseuse
