As we all know this beautiful weather will not last- so get out and enjoy it while it’s still here! Exercising outside can be very motivating and a nice change of pace if you’ve been cooped up inside all day. Here are some of the benefits of exercising outdoors:

1.      You can do it anywhere. The track, a trail, the park, sidewalks, your lawn… All you need is a good pair of sneakers and the motivation to go out and push yourself. Don’t miss workouts just because you can’t make it to the gym- having outdoor workouts in your arsenal will allow you to get a workout in anytime, anywhere.

2.      Exposure to the ultraviolet rays from the sun stimulates your body to produce vitamin D. Sufficient vitamin D helps to prevent various forms of cancer, bone degeneration, and depression. It is nearly impossible to get the necessary amount of vitamin D from fortified foods so getting daily exposure to sunlight is important.

3.      It makes us feel youthful. Everyone remembers playing outside when they were kids. As we get older, most people end up spending more and more time indoors and have fewer opportunities to “play” outside. Getting outside and moving around stimulates positive memories from when we were younger and can invigorate your energy levels.

4.      The variety of terrain available outdoors (especially in Ithaca) offers changes in intensity for walkers and runners. The challenge provided by hills and uneven surfaces increases your metabolism and thus increases your caloric expenditure.

5.      It’s beautiful out! The sun, fresh air, and beautiful views provided by nature all make us feel good and brighten up our day.

Here are some ideas for outdoor exercises and activities:

·         Walking/power walking/hiking

·         Jogging/running (include hills and/or bleachers)

·         Road/mountain biking

·         Kayaking/canoeing

·         Wind sprints/vertical and broad jumps

·         Pushups, sit ups/crunches, planks, squats, lunges

·         Calisthenics

·         Pickup sports

Wellness Clinic members: I encourage you to get out and enjoy the opportunity to exercise outdoors while this beautiful weather is still with us. Ask your trainer for help devising an outdoor workout or join in on one of our group exercise classes being held outdoors! The clinic will be here waiting when old man winter shows up. 

Live Well.