‘Get Outside: The Benefits of Outdoor Exercise’ By Kathryn Glenn

Credit: Kathryn Glenn, Founder | Far and Wide Outside (farandwideoutside.com)

Are you a gym rat looking to take your exercise routine to the next level? Or maybe you’re a busy professional, parent, or student, and you know that you should add some exercise to your day. The bottom line is that everyone can benefit from a little - or a lot - of outdoor exercise. The benefits range from both improved physical and mental health to saving money and time.


The Physical Health Benefits of Outdoor Exercise
It is common knowledge that exercise is important. From increased strength and endurance to improved cardiovascular health to better immune function, the benefits are well-known and important. Both indoor and outdoor exercise can give the body these boosts, but doing your workout in nature adds a few extra elements into the mix. You’re less likely to catch a respiratory illness (especially in the sickness-prone winter months) like you would be at a gym. Plus, fresh air is refreshing to the soul. Additionally, the Vitamin D you’ll get from the sun will improve bone health and immune function. Pairing these physical health benefits with the mental health benefits of outdoor exercise and you’ll feel great!

The Mental Health Benefits of Outdoor Exercise
While exercise is generally good for mental health, working out in nature elevates your mental health even more. A short 15-minute walk in a nature setting, like a tree-lined street or path around a green park can reduce stress and anxiety. Another common benefit of spending time in nature is a sharper mind. Attention and concentration will improve and can be replenished better than alternate activities like scrolling your phone or taking an indoor break. Comparing an outdoor workout to an indoor one can promote motivation as there is more varied scenery and changing terrain. A local nature trail or hike may be just what you need. It can be more interesting and easier to do with a friend. Social interaction also has incredible mental health benefits!

Outdoor Exercise is About Time and Ease
Incorporating outdoor workouts into daily life can be simple. If you swap an outdoor run for one on a gym treadmill, you’ll save commuting time. Eliminating the barrier of commuting to a gym can increase the likelihood that you’ll stick with a workout routine. Simple ways to incorporate small outdoor workout “snacks” include swapping out phone scrolling for a walk around the block when you need a break. Or take your yoga mat outside to feel more grounded to the earth. Pair walking the dog with something you do regularly, like after dinner and before cleaning up, to make it more routine. On a more drastic level, consider commuting by bike or walking to work. Sometimes you’ll actually save time when you fly through bumper-to-bumper traffic and you don’t have to look for a parking spot.

Outdoor Exercise is About Money
Yes, some outdoor activities are incredibly expensive, including rock climbing, kayaking, or skiing. However, some of the best ones are nearly free. All you need for a walk, run, or hike is a pair of running or hiking shoes. Invest in a decent bike and you’ll save on gas. You could even consider giving up your car or downsizing to one car for the family. Proper clothing such as rain, snow, and sun gear are essential, but will likely cost less than a frequent pass to the gym. Remember that you don’t have to have top-of-the line equipment. Renting outdoor gear or buying used is also a great way to go.

Get Outside!
I hope that you are inspired to get a little more sun on your face and fresh air in your lungs. Take one small step today to add a little more outdoor exercise to your life and see how you feel. Enjoy the outdoors and enjoy the day!


Meet Our Contributor — Kathryn Glenn
From countless road trips to traveling to 30+ countries with kids in tow, Kathryn is an expert in family travel. She’s also an advocate for getting outside and enjoying the physical and mental benefits of nature. Learn more about her work here.