Monday, April 07, 2014
The benefits of adding the “out” to your workout
As we emerge squinting and stumbling from our hibernatory
caves, we get our first taste of delicious sunshine and smile. Spring is
here — and not a moment too soon. We’ve officially made it through a very tough
winter.
At this time of year, we are naturally drawn to the
outdoors, and with good reason. Not only do we want to drink in all of that
warmth and blue sky we’ve been missing, but mankind has an innate physiological
need to connect with nature.
While I’m sure that most of you can appreciate how good you
feel after spending time outside, you may be unaware that studies are beginning
to show just how important nature is to our health. Research has demonstrated
that regularly spending time outdoors can reduce stress hormone levels and
release endorphins. It can enhance our immune systems and balance our moods.
Amazingly, recent studies have shown that it can even boost our ability to
fight cancer.
And those are just the benefits of being outside, even if
it’s just to sit quietly in the grass and listen to the sound of chirping birds
and swaying tree branches. Exercise itself boasts many of the same advantages
as quiet time in nature, so just imagine how the bonuses multiply when you exercise
outside. Cha-ching!
What’s more, researchers have observed that people who
exercise outdoors perceive their level of exertion as lower and their sense of
enjoyment higher than those exercising at the same intensity indoors. Imagine
that. You’re working out harder (and reaping all the rewards of a more intense
workout) without even feeling it, all while having more fun. Cha-ching!
Cha-ching!
Yep, this one’s a no-brainer. So in the spirit of spring,
re-introduce yourself to Mother Nature. She’s missed you.
Jennifer
Fetterley is a registered dietitian for the Backus
Health System and Thames Valley Council for Community Action. This advice should not replace the advice of your personal
healthcare provider. To comment on this column or others, visit the Healthy
Living blog at www.healthydocs.blogspot.com or e-mail Ms. Fetterley or any of the Healthy Living columnists at healthyliving@wwbh.org.
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