Unlocking the Mental Benefits of Outdoor Fitness
- johnhybridtrainer
- May 15
- 3 min read
Exercising Al Fresco
The fitness industry is a juggernaut! With gyms popping up all over, YouTube workouts by the million and more equipment for sale than you can shake a stick at (pun entirely intended!). Has this rendered outdoor fitness irrelevant, where there's no air con, or workout stats to study? We don't think so!
In fact, now more than ever, with the constant barrage of noise, stress and technology getting outside has become more important for our mental health. While there are numerous physical benefits to training outside, which we will touch on, the benefits for your mind are hugely compelling. From reducing stress, elevating mood, and improving focus, keep reading to find out why your next workout should be in the great outdoors!
Ease your mind
The physical benefits to training outside are easy to see, cardiovascular health through outdoor activities like running, walking, or cycling are well known. The changes in terrain provide natural intervals in your training and the softer surfaces are kinder on your joints. The benefits for your mental health are just as numerous.
Exposure to natural light helps regulate your body's circadian rhythm and sleep cycles, meaning you can fall asleep quicker and have better quality sleep.
Boosts immune system, the increase in vitamin D from natural sunlight has been shown to support a healthy immune system.
Being in nature can lower cortisol levels and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, just 20 mins in a green space has been shown to improve mood.
Letting your mind and your feet wander in spaces like forests, woodlands and beaches promotes mindfulness with so many sights, sounds and smells to focus on. This can enhance mental clarity and motivation.
Exploring new paths is great exercise for your mind and your feet
Time to get the trail shoes on
You don't need to do anything fancy to get these benefits, where we live in Surrey, we are spoiled for choice with the beautiful North Downs, but a small local park can still reap the same benefits. There are so many ways you can take your training outdoors; here's a few we love:
Grab your mat and set up on the beach for a core workout, you could even add a swim if you're feeling brave!
Find a river tow path and jump on your bike for an easy ride, they are usually flat and easy to navigate.
Lace up your walking boots or running shoes and head out on a hike with a picnic or a trail run. There are so many apps with route ideas, like AllTrails, or pack an OS map.
There are an increasing number of outdoor gyms or obstacle courses popping up in parks or on beach fronts, take your favourite workout out of the gym to one of these spaces.
Hiking through the beautiful English countryside Hopefully this has inspired you to get outside for your next workout, caring for your body outside helps you care for your mind on the inside. What are you waiting for, grab your sunnies and let's go!!
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