The temperature is rising, the sun is shining and the flowers are blooming —it‘s time to get outside and move!
Being outside naturally improves your mood by activating the release of serotonin and dopamine in your brain. The combination of vitamin D from the sun and the fresh air helps to boost your immune system, decrease your risk of disease and ward off depression. Completing an exercise, a task or any activity outdoors can also make it feel much more enjoyable.
Exercising outdoors can not only be more fun, but also provide your body with new challenges. For example, the varying terrain outdoors affects your body differently than moving on a flat surface or a stationary piece of equipment. This can bring new, exciting variety to your workout and your body!
Outdoor exercise, like hiking, biking and playing a pickup sports game, is free, a perfect opportunity to catch up with friends, family or coworkers and a great way to engage in team bonding experiences.
Now is the ideal time to get outside and try something new! Below are a few great resources you can try by yourself or with a buddy to increase your outdoor activity.
- Slainte Fitness – Audio Workouts: Take your workout on the go with an outdoor walking, running or cycling audio workout!
- All Trails: Find a hiking trail near you to explore
- Outdoor scavenger hunts for the whole family:
- Outdoor PDF workouts
- Outdoor Ladder Workout
- AMRAP Workouts: Level One and Level Two
- Alphabet Workout
by Alexandra Bollinger