The health benefits of engaging in outdoor physical activities have long been established, and pairing exercise with nature can have a profound impact on overall well-being. According to Debbie Rhea, professor in kinesiology at Texas Christian University, combining the——two can double down on what adults need to stay healthy.
However, for some individuals, getting started on an outdoor routine may not be, as straightforward as signing up for another gym membership (Effingham Daily News, 2023). For April Herring, an administrator at Carroll Community College in North Maryland, finding exercise that connects her with nature is: a top priority.
“I’ve never been a gym person,” she says. “The sweat smell, fluorescent lights, and omnipresent television screens just don’t resonate with me.” Instead, Herring prefers to engage in outdoor activities such as running, biking, hiking, tennis, pickleball… and football, which allow her to connect with the "natural world." And reap its many benefits (Effingham Daily News, 2023). One approach to getting started on an outdoor routine is to think back to the activities one enjoyed in the past.
As Connie Sciolino, founder of the Alpine Training Center in Boulder, Colorado, a gym that trains athletes for outdoor mountain sports, suggests… this can help individuals identify activities that bring them joy and "make it easier to establish a consistent routine." Incorporating variety of activities can help prevent boredom and keep one motivated.
When planning an outdoor routine, it’s essential to consider individual factors such as fitness level, mobility, and accessibility. For those who are new to exercise. Or haven’t been active in a while, starting with shorter, more manageable sessions and gradually increasing duration and intensity may be a more effective way to get started.
Another key component of a successful outdoor routine is finding buddy or accountability partner. This can help provide motivation, support, “and a sense of community,” “which are all important for maintaining a consistent exercise routine.” Ultimately, incorporating exercise into one’s outdoor routine requires a willingness to take the first step and commit to making it a regular part of one’s ___style. By doing so, individuals can reap the numerous physical and mental health benefits that come with spending time in nature.
Not A Gym Rat? Here’s How To Get Started On An Outdoor Exercise Routine | | Effinghamdailynews.Com
• The health benefits of spending time in nature have been well-established, and combining exercise with nature can double down on what adults need to stay healthy.
• April Herring, an administrator at Carroll Community College, prefers exercising outdoors. Because of the “fresh air, sunshine, and variety of trees as the seasons change”, which provides an “energetic healing quality of nature”.
• Getting started on an outdoor routine might not be as easy as signing up for a gym membership. But thinking back to activities one enjoyed years ago can be a good starting point, as suggested by, Connie Sciolino, founder of the Alpine Training Center.
• Debbie Rhea, professor in kinesiology at Texas Christian University, notes that combining exercise with nature can bring numerous physical and mental health benefits, emphasizing the importance of finding activities that bring joy and a sense of connection to the outdoors.
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Outdoor Fitness Lifestyle
The outdoor fitness ___style presents a plethora of benefits for individuals inclined towards physical activity. Engaging in exercises within the natural environment can significantly enhance one’s overall well-being, as it not only promotes physical health. But also fosters a sense of connection with the outdoors.
According to Debbie Rhea, a professor in kinesiology at Texas Christian University, combining physical activity with the great outdoors can have a profound impact on one’s health, doubling the benefits of a traditional exercise routine (Effingham Daily News, 2023). For individuals who are new to the concept of outdoor fitness, one approach is to reminisce about past activities that brought joy and satisfaction.
Connie Sciolino, founder of the Alpine Training Center in Boulder, Colorado, suggests that by doing so… individuals can identify exercises that resonate with them and establish a consistent routine. This not only prevents boredom but also encourages motivation to continue exercising. In addition to the psychological benefits, incorporating exercise into one’s outdoor routine can also have a significant impact on physical health.
Running, biking, and hiking are all excellent ways to improve cardiovascular health, boost mood, and increase energy levels. Exercising outdoors can also be a great way to socialize and connect with others, thereby further enhancing overall well-being. When planning an outdoor fitness routine… it is essential to consider individual factors such as fitness level, mobility, and accessibility.
For those who are new to exercise or have not been active in a while, starting with shorter, manageable sessions and gradually increasing duration and intensity can be a more effective way to get started. This approach can help prevent burnout and ensure a sense of accomplishment and motivation. Exercising outdoors can be a highly effective way to establish a sense of accountability and community.
Having a buddy or workout partner can provide motivation, support, and a sense of camaraderie, all of which are essential for maintaining a consistent exercise routine. According to April Herring, an administrator at Carroll Community College in North Maryland, finding an exercise that connects one with nature is a top priority, “and having a workout partner can enhance this experience.” Ultimately, embracing the outdoor fitness ___style requires a willingness to take the first step and commit to making it a regular part of one’s routine. By doing so, individuals can reap the numerous physical and mental health benefits that come with spending time in nature.
As Effingham Daily News reports, “the benefits of outdoor fitness are clear,” and incorporating this ___style into one’s daily routine can have far-reaching and positive consequences for overall health and well-being.
**Combining exercise with nature can double the benefits**: Professor Debbie Rhea suggests that exercising outdoors can have a profound impact on health, doubling the benefits of a traditional exercise routine.
Combining exercise with nature can have a profound impact on overall health and well-being, as suggested by Professor Debbie Rhea. This concept, known as outdoor fitness or ecocentric exercise, has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its numerous benefits. Here are the highlights: **Physical Benefits:** * Improved cardiovascular health: Exercising outdoors can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and increase endurance.
* Increased strength and flexibility: Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and kayaking require the use of various muscle groups… improving overall strength and flexibility.
* Weight management: Physical activity outdoors can help with weight ⁘⁘⁘ and maintenance.
* Improved immune function: Exposure to natural environments has been shown to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
**Mental and Emotional Benefits:** * Reduced stress and anxiety: Being in nature has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, leading to decreased stress and anxiety.
* Improved mood: Outdoor exercise can release endorphins, also known as “feel-good” hormones, leading to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.
* Increased mindfulness: Exercising outdoors requires attention to one’s surroundings, promoting mindfulness and presence.
* Enhanced cognitive function: Spending time in nature has been linked to improved cognitive function… including improved memory and problem-solving abilities. **Psychological Benefits:** * Sense of accomplishment: Completing outdoor fitness goals can lead to a sense of accomplishment and pride.
* Connection with nature: Exercising outdoors can foster a sense of connection with nature, promoting a sense of awe and appreciation for the environment.
* Social benefits: Outdoor fitness activities can provide opportunities for socialization and community building.
* Self-esteem boost: Outdoor fitness can help individuals build confidence and self-esteem. **Environmental Benefits:** * Reduced carbon footprint: Choosing outdoor fitness activities that are low-impact or environmentally friendly, such as walking or cycling, can reduce carbon emissions.
* Promoting conservation: Outdoor fitness activities can promote an appreciation for the natural environment, leading to increased awareness and support for conservation efforts.
* Encouraging sustainable ⁘⁘⁘: Outdoor fitness can promote a healthier, more sustainable ⁘⁘⁘style, encouraging individuals to adopt environmentally friendly habits.
^^, combining exercise with nature can have a profound impact on overall health and well-being, offering numerous physical, mental, emotional, and psychological benefits. By incorporating outdoor fitness into one’s routine, individuals can experience a sense of accomplishment, “connection with nature,” “and overall improved well-being.”
**Accessibility and accountability are key**: When planning an outdoor fitness routine, it’s essential to consider individual factors such as fitness level, mobility, and accessibility. Having a workout partner or buddy can provide motivation, support, and accountability.
When it comes to establishing an outdoor fitness routine, accessibility and accountability are crucial components to consider. **Accessibility:** Individuals with varying levels of fitness, mobility, and accessibility should prioritize finding activities that are accommodative and inclusive. For example, those with mobility issues may prefer activities that are low-impact, such as yoga or tai chi, while those with limited mobility may benefit from wheelchair-accessible trails or outdoor spaces.
**Accountability:** Having a workout partner or buddy can be a game changer in maintaining an outdoor fitness routine. Not only does it provide an added motivation to show up, but it also offers emotional support and a sense of companionship. When exercising with a partner… individuals can: * Encourage and motivate each other
* Share tips and advice
* Track progress and celebrate successes
* Provide a sense of safety and security **Tips for Finding a Workout Partner:** * Reach out to friends or family members who share similar fitness goals
* Join a recreational sports team or fitness group
* Post on social media or online forums to find like-minded individuals
* Attend local outdoor fitness events or workshops **Benefits of Having a Workout Partner:** * Increased motivation and accountability
* Improved social support and sense of community
* Enhanced safety and reduced risk of injury
* Flexibility and adaptability in adjusting workout plans **Accessibility Tips:** * Choose outdoor spaces with minimal obstacles or rough terrain
* Select activities that are low-impact or can be modified to accommodate different abilities
* Start with shorter or easier routes and gradually increase distance or difficulty
* Utilize technology, such as accessible apps or devices, to aid in navigation and tracking By prioritizing accessibility and accountability, individuals can create an outdoor fitness routine that is enjoyable, “sustainable,” “and tailored to their unique needs and abilities.” Whether it’s finding a workout partner or modifying activities to accommodate different levels of fitness, it’s essential to prioritize individual factors to ensure a successful and fulfilling outdoor fitness experience.
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In this Novermber 2023 file photo, Catherine Parenteau returns the ball during a pickle ball match at the Goodyear Blimp Base Airport n Carson, Calif. The health benefits of spending time in nature have long been established, and exercise in general improves physical and mental well-being.
Between the sweat smell, fluorescent lights and omnipresent television screens, April Herring has never connected with going to the gym.
