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I read a statistic the other day that was shocking: Americans spend 90% of their time indoors! Say what?!?! I think it is time to step out into the fresh air (more than 10% of the time) to exercise and start reaping the many benefits Mother Nature “naturally” bestows upon us.
Taking your workout from the treadmill to the trail…
- improves mind-body connection
- increases production of Vit-D, now known to help prevent a plethora of diseases
- is more visually stimulating
- improves motivation
- means less clock-watching
- enhances sense of well-being
- exposes you to negative ions, which are believed to enhance mood, improve sleep, and bolster energy.
- increases production of Vit D, which research shows is vital to warding off numerous diseases
- and last, but not least – exercising on natural terrain mimics the way we move through life more than indoor workouts, where machines are fixed, the treadmill’s belt is smooth and flat, and there is no wind resistance to speak of. The musculoskeletal system is challenged more in an outdoor environment. Running on dirt trails, grass, and hills where the ground is not perfectly flat strengthens joints, tendon, and ligaments, as well as small muscle groups that don’t see much action when you’re on a treadmill.
Not a runner? That’s okay – there are plenty of other outdoor activities that burn lots of calories, such as swimming, hiking (especially if there are hills involved), and cycling. ACE Fitness lists several more…check them out!