Posted by April Shetrone on Mar.27, 2010

©iStockphoto.com - gbh007

After months of record-breaking snow and countless hours on the treadmill, a few days of sunshine and temperatures in the 60’s feel like an answered prayer. Every spring, I look forward to moving my exercise routine out from in front of the TV and into the picturesque outdoors. While an hour on the treadmill or a strength training DVD has many physical and mental health benefits, an outdoor routine can offer even more.

Sunlight

Recently, there has been a lot of buzz about vitamin D deficiencies and the importance of the nutrient to our energy and health. One of the easiest ways to get your daily dose of vitamin D is to spend time outside. During the winter, the shorter days and frigid temperatures prevent us from enjoying the benefits of sun, but there are fewer excuses for spending all day inside when spring arrives. Take advantage of the extra daylight, and get a free dose of vitamin D.

Fresh Air

There is something extremely rejuvenating about spring air. The smells of nature are refreshing, especially if your office air tastes as stale as mine does most days. Practice yoga outside, and increase the soothing effects of the controlled breathing by appreciating the spring air as you breathe in and out.

Less Electricity Use

Consider for a moment all the electricity it must take to operate a gym. If you typically workout at home, consider how much energy you could save by not turning on the TV during your workout or by not using your treadmill. By exercising outdoors, you are helping the planet and your wallet.

Diversity

Doing the same routine in the same place every week can get boring quickly, and boredom leads to lack of motivation. Outdoor activities introduce a change of scenery into your routine and offer a variety of workouts. Exercise doesn’t have to be limited to walking or jogging. It can include outdoor sports, hiking, jump roping, hula hooping, swimming, or a fun strength workout on the local playground. Get creative, and increase your motivation.

Build Muscle Without Extra Time

Typically, our workouts are separated into cardio and strength training, but nature combines these two activities. The uneven ground, the wind, the hills, and the turns all add new depth to your typical cardio routine.

More Convenience and Less Time

Unless you are lucky enough to have a fabulous home gym, most people have to make a special trip to a fitness center. A 20-minute workout can quickly turn in to an hour workout depending on the commute and the number of machines available, but an outdoor workout is as simple as opening your front door. In addition, it is easier to squeeze in a short walk when you are out running errands or on your lunch break than it is to find time for an impromptu trip to gym. Everyone wants more time in the day and more money in their wallet, so head outdoors and make both those dreams come true.

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Posted under Fitness For Body & Mind, Health & Fitness.