I'm sure you've seen them before- people who go swimming at the lake or ocean and swim several laps, bike around the trails near the lake or ocean, or run up and down the beach. Well, it's time to let you in on a powerhouse gym move- that area is one of the best places to exercise because there are so many benefits to getting your exercise in a natural setting.
Yes, it's true- you will burn more calories (water is about ten times denser than air), release endorphins (known as 'the happy drug'), and get all of the cardiovascular benefits of working out. But the best thing about getting your exercise in natural settings like lakes, oceans, or pools? You can swim year-round!
Here are 9 of those great reasons!
1. You will be motivated by the beautiful weather and surroundings to work out harder and longer.
The sounds and smells of the outdoors helps to encourage people to exercise, and it's much easier to work out for longer with these relaxing, natural sounds in the background. You will be less likely to quit if you set small goals each day- like how many laps around your favorite lake you can swim or bike before you turn back.
2. You will burn more calories and lose more weight by exercising in a natural setting.
The National Park Service has even conducted studies that show people tend to move around more when in natural surroundings-in other words, they tend to walk longer paths and walk at a faster rate than they would otherwise if indoors. This results in burning more calories and eventually losing weight. They also tend to feel better mentally and physically during the exercise because the sun helps your body produce Vitamin D.
3. You will reduce stress and increase your energy levels by getting exercise in the great outdoors.
Vitamin D is not the only thing that our bodies produce when exposed to sunlight. Cortisol (the primary stress hormone) falls, showing that stress hormones were already high throughout the day after being cooped up all day. Thirty minutes of exercise in the sun will help reduce stress, increase happiness, and provide you with an extra boost of energy. This is a real powerhouse gym move that you can apply to your own workout routine.
Even if you’re working out in a very good gym like MPower Fitness Coaching, getting some much-needed sunlight is still essential in staying healthy and strong.
4. You will be able to participate in a wide range of sports and activities that can help you achieve your unique fitness objectives.
It's also healthier for your joints! According to studies, exercising outside using all four limbs is less likely to cause injuries or joint problems. You can also strengthen muscles and bones faster by working them in different ways from the way they are used inside a powerhouse gym like MPower Fitness Coaching. It’s a good way to stay fit and active more days of the week!
Runners, swimmers, bikers, and hikers may all be found outdoors. Some individuals prefer to run while others prefer swimming laps at the lake or ocean, while others bike and hike along trails and paths close to the water. You will come across new exercises that you wouldn't have associated with before when you exercise outside!
5. You can enjoy nature while you work out!
This is not only very relaxing, but it's good for your mental health, which can be beneficial to your overall physical health.
It's much easier to work out in a group when you're outside. There will be less chance of people letting themselves and others down by skipping an exercise session when exercising with other people, whether it's one or more buddies, a personal trainer, or workout enthusiast from your local gym.
Plus, being part of a group can help you push yourself harder than exercising alone.
6. You can do all of these things ANYWHERE!
At MPower Fitness Coaching, we tell our clients that there are great workout opportunities at any lake, ocean, or beach around the world. If you're near an enormous body of water and want to work out, then go there and take advantage of it!
Swimming is an excellent full-body workout that helps tone all of your muscles while burning lots of calories! You can burn up to 500 calories per hour swimming laps at the pool or lake!
The water helps with your flexibility and increases your range of motion by adding resistance to your movements!
7. You will feel happier afterward!
Because those who exercise outdoors report that they feel more energized during their workout and later, they tend to have a better overall mood. According to research, individuals who go for a walk or bike ride in the woods feel less stressed and have a more positive attitude than those that don't. You will be able to live life to the fullest!
8. You will be able to save some money!
While this may not be the most important thing for everyone, it is a perk. You can save money by getting your daily exercise in at no cost- only the cost of some water shoes if you want to swim. You don't have to pay fees for some outdoor workouts, like hiking or biking trails.
Even some outdoor workouts don't require any gear at all, like running on the beach. You will be able to enjoy beautiful sights and sounds! There's nothing like breathing in the fresh, crisp air while swimming or taking a run on the trails or along the beach at sunrise or sunset!
You can also sing your heart out when you're out in nature and not have to worry about disturbing others because everyone around you will be doing the same!
9. It will help you sleep better!
Those who exercise outdoors before bed report that they tend to fall asleep more quickly and stay asleep longer than those who don't exercise outdoors. A good night's rest is invaluable when it comes to health and well-being, so take advantage of this perk!
Conclusion
Now that I've given you a few minor exercise suggestions go out and enjoy your environment while getting in shape! If you don't have access to a real-world setting near your residence, seek one out as soon as feasible.
If the outdoors isn’t available to you, or you still feel more comfortable working out at home because of health reasons, never fear. MPower Fitness Coaching can offer you efficient and effective one-on-one fitness coaching from the comfort of your own home.
You can work out any time you want and anywhere you like. We make sure fitness suits your schedule and lifestyle!