Aren’t gyms great? They have air conditioning, equipment for every type of workout imaginable, and sometimes even a juice bar! There are some things, though, that the gym is missing — and only the great outdoors can provide! What are those things? Well we’re glad you asked!
- Vitamin DThere is a better way to get vitamin D than drinking whole milk. By designating just 2 days per week to spend about 30 minutes outside between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm, you will give your body plenty of time for the vitamin D synthesis it needs to be able to absorb calcium to keep your bones strong and healthy. (Bonus tip: the sun does provide you with the vitamin D your body needs, but you still need sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful, damaging rays)
- The TerrainSure, running on a treadmill is great and you can definitely find yourself getting in the zone, but there’s nothing quite like the outdoor terrain. By running or cycling outside you are exposed to hills and wind resistance that force your body to work harder and react to different situations that you wouldn’t be able to experience in a gym. The whole outdoor environment drives you to work different muscles and burn more calories.
- The Air is BetterYes, air conditioning feels great on your skin while you’re working up a sweat, but all of that recycled air isn’t as great for your lungs. Fresh, outdoor air will keep you breathing better and the real oxygen coursing through your body will give you the energy you need to finish your workout without feeling exhausted.
- It’s CleanerFinally, if you work out in the great outdoors you won’t have to worry whether or not the person before you wiped down the equipment. Gyms can harbor all kinds of germs, bacteria, and even viruses that just aren’t an issue when you exercise outside.
Now, don’t get too excited and completely ditch the gym in order to fully move your workout outside. Both environments benefit you in different ways and both should play a role in your exercise routine. And since Mother Nature took care of creating your perfect outdoor workout experience, we here at Balance Fitness want to help you create the perfect indoor workout experience. Please give us a call at (650) 348-1259 or contact us online if you have any questions or want to set up a consultation!
Have a healthy month!