[2023] 10 Incredible Benefits of Exercising Outdoors You Need to Know About

Are you tired of working out indoors? If so, it might be time to take your exercise routines outside. Not only does outdoor exercise let you breathe fresh air and enjoy your surroundings, but it also comes with a host of physical and mental benefits. Our Fitness and Nature team has surveyed multiple sources to bring you the top 10 incredible benefits of exercising outside.

BENEFIT #1: Boost Your Immune System

One benefit of exercising outdoors is that it can help improve your immune system. When you exercise outside, your body is exposed to new and different environments. This exposure can help develop a stronger immune system that is better equipped to fight off various illnesses. A study published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine found that regular outdoor exercise increases the production of white blood cells, which play a vital role in the body's immune response.

BENEFIT #2: Soak Up Vitamin D

Did you know that being outdoors and exposed to sunlight can help boost your Vitamin D levels? Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, and it also plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system. Our team recommends getting outside in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is not too strong and the chances of burning are lower.

BENEFIT #3: Burn More Calories

Another benefit of outdoor exercise is that it can help you burn more calories. When you exercise outside, your body has to work harder to maintain a consistent temperature, which leads to a higher calorie burn. Additionally, outdoor workouts allow you to include different terrains and levels of intensity that can help increase your overall calorie burn.

BENEFIT #4: Release More Feel-Good Hormones

Have you ever noticed how relaxed and happy you feel after spending time outdoors? That's because being outside stimulates the release of feel-good hormones like endorphins and serotonin. These hormones not only improve your mood, but they also help reduce stress and anxiety.

BENEFIT #5: Work Out Longer and Harder

When you exercise inside, you may be limited by space, equipment, or other factors. But when you exercise outside, the possibilities are endless. You can run, bike, hike, and even swim if you have access to water. The variety of outdoor exercises makes it easier to change up your workout and avoid boredom while also challenging your body to work harder.

BENEFIT #6: Increase Your Vitamin N Intake

Vitamin N, or "nature", is essential for a healthy mind and body. Studies have found that spending time in nature can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and increase overall well-being. Additionally, Vitamin N can also help boost creativity and focus, making it an essential component of overall health.

BENEFIT #7: Connect with Your Surroundings

When you exercise outdoors, you have the opportunity to connect with your surroundings in a way that you can't indoors. Whether it's feeling the sun on your skin, hearing the sound of birds chirping, or admiring the beautiful scenery around you, being in nature can help you feel grounded and connected to the world.

BENEFIT #8: Improve Your Sleep

It's no secret that a good night's sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Exercising outside can improve the quality and duration of your sleep. Being in natural light and getting fresh air can help regulate your circadian rhythm, which can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

BENEFIT #9: Enhance Your Social Life

Exercising outside offers an excellent opportunity to socialize. Whether it's joining a hiking group, going on a bike ride with friends, or signing up for an outdoor fitness class, there are plenty of ways to connect with other like-minded individuals who share your love for fitness and nature.

BENEFIT #10: Saves Money

One of the best things about exercising outside is that it doesn't cost anything. Unlike gym memberships or expensive equipment, all you need is a pair of running shoes and some comfortable clothes. Taking your workout outside can help you save money while also improving your health and fitness.

FAQ

What are the top 5 most important benefits of exercise?

The top five most important benefits of exercise are: improved overall health and fitness, reduced risk of chronic diseases, weight management, improved mental health, and increased longevity.

How can outdoor exercises benefit you?

Outdoor exercises can benefit you in many ways. They can help improve your immune system, increase your Vitamin D intake, burn more calories, release more feel-good hormones, work out longer and harder, increase your Vitamin N intake, connect with your surroundings, improve your sleep, enhance your social life, and save money.

What are the top 10 benefits of physical activity?

The top 10 benefits of physical activity are: improved overall health and fitness, reduced risk of chronic diseases, weight management, improved mental health, increased longevity, improved cognitive function, increased energy levels, improved sleep quality, stronger bones and muscles, and improved self-confidence.

Quick tips and facts

• Exercising outside can boost creativity and focus
• Vitamin N, or "nature," is essential for overall health and well-being
• Spending time in nature can reduce stress and anxiety
• Outdoor exercise doesn't cost anything
• Being in natural light can help regulate your circadian rhythm and improve your sleep quality

Recommendation

Our Fitness and Nature team highly recommends incorporating outdoor exercise into your fitness routine. The benefits of exercise and nature are undeniable, and exercising outside is a great way to combine the two. Whether it's a brisk walk, a bike ride, or a hike in the mountains, there are plenty of ways to get outside and get active. So grab your running shoes, and head outside for a workout that will leave you feeling energized and refreshed.