As the hot days are nearer, it is a sign to change your fitness mindset and routine. This seasonal shift not only brings health benefits but also re-energizes your workout preparation. I’d say buckle up and take note of the tips to come.
Out with the cold, in with the warmth
You know what that means? Move to outdoor fitness. Yes, this is now the perfect time to take a breath of that fresh, crisp air of the spring season. The transition from winter to spring offers an opportunity to improve both our physical and mental health, and according to the American Heart Association, taking part in outdoor physical activity can greatly improve cardiovascular (heart) health, reduce stress, and enhance your mood.
Now, let us break down the medical importance and body benefits this brings.
- Spring’s milder temperatures make outdoor activities more enjoyable and sustainable. Also, regular aerobics exercises such as running and cycling lowers our blood pressure, improve heart function, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Outdoor exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. A study published by Environmental Science and Technology found that spending time in natural environments can reduce cortisol (steroid/stress hormone) levels and improve our overall mental well-being. We simply say fresh air and natural light increase mood, and energy levels and make workouts more enjoyable.
- As we spend more time in the daylight, we have exposure to vitamin D, which is important for bone health, immune function, strong teeth, and muscle health. So, let’s stay active outdoors, it’s the nutrients we’ll be getting for me.
Ideal outdoor activities you can try
Running or jogging
As temperatures rise, running and jogging become more comfortable. Studies suggest that running outdoors improves cognitive function, helps build strong bones, builds resilience, improves heart health, and burns calories faster.
Cycling
Cycling is a low-impact exercise that strengthens our lower bodies, improves heart health, and supports joint mobility. Therefore, Spring’s pleasant weather makes it a perfect time to explore local trails and new routes.
Yoga and Pilates
Practicing yoga and Pilates outdoors combines the benefit of physical exercise with the calming effects of nature. So, grab your mat and start enjoying peaceful and refreshing workouts.
Hiking
Hiking engages multiple muscle groups and provides a full-body workout. This activity allows staying active with family and friends while enjoying the scenic views that are good for mental relaxation. A study in The Journal of Environmental Psychology found that hiking in nature can lower stress levels and boost overall well-being.
You may have noticed how much we wrote the phrase “improves heart health”, that is because your heart is the second most important organ in our bodies after the brain, and it is necessary to sustain life, even to the most important organ.
So, how can you stay motivated you ask?
- Be realistic with your fitness goals and the fitness level you are currently in. This will help you understand the steps you must take to reach your goals.
- Eat healthy. You must be consuming the right food to reach your fitness goals because nutrition is one of the major contributing factors that help you lead a fulfilling and healthy life.
- Aim to feel good from within and lead a fulfilling, healthy lifestyle. It is only natural to want to look good (aesthetically) and I promise, you will get there. Just look out for wanting to see results too soon, this might deter your progress.
- Track your progress to know how far you have come and where you are going. You can do this by using fitness apps or a journal where you take notes of your body mass. Either gains or losses.
- Seek a community of people with the same interests, this makes you accountable and receive or share support with those that need it. Also, these communities have group runs, outdoor exercise sessions, and cycling clubs that you will enjoy.
- Last but not least, celebrate your wins, big or small. For example, if you have stayed consistent for one week or two, celebrate it, it is a win after all. Or, if you were able to stick to healthy eating without giving in to temptation for a month, that’s worth celebrating.
The moral of the story is that you need to push yourself to get where you need to be, start now. For those with positive support structures then good, for those that don’t, you need to work harder and be smart, pat yourself on the back, it is worth it.
From your loving friend Twelve Marketing Inc.
