The world of fitness seems to be in a continuous state of flux. Newer fitness techniques seem to be emerging every other day, some unique and some rather odd. Fitness regimes today include everything from different dance styles to complex gym machines and what not. Hectic lifestyles mean that more and more people are turning to different fitness regimes to keep themselves healthy. But what about the old school outdoor exercise? A brief perusal of doctor’s advice columns in the newspapers clearly shows that the medical community still believes that jogging, walking and simple outdoor exercises are the key to keeping diseases away. For most doctors and fitness experts outdoor exercise provides some benefits which are essential for mental and physical well being.
Mind Stimulant: Outdoor exercise is an excellent stimulant for the mind. Exercising within the confines of a room or a gym fixates the mind within that space and it finds no stimulation. However exercising outdoors inevitably leads to a constant change of scenario and the mind also reacts to that change in a positive manner. This makes the mind much sharper and responsive.
Vitamin D: The sun as we know is one of the main sources of vitamin D in our everyday life. Our cloistered indoor life confined within the spaces of office and home means that rarely do we come in direct contact with the sun and thus lose out on a vital source of vitamins. Regular exposure to the sunlight makes available one of the easiest sources of natural vitamins and rejuvenates us.
Natural Conditions: Our bodies are organically constituted and machines can only so much enhance our physical experiences. Fitness machines, though helpful remain insufficient replacement for natural conditions. Exercises on natural surfaces provide traction and slope which is fundamental and necessary for bodily well being. The outdoors does not have the consistency and monotony of a gym and provides a consistent variety that is enriching.
Engaging and Challenging: Researches have shown that those who are engaged in outdoor exercises are more likely to persist with their fitness regime. This is largely because they are in charge of their own fitness regime and do not have to follow any rigid schedule set by their instructors. They are more likely to make it a routine aspect of their daily life and thereby keep common diseases and disorders away. For many, outdoor exercise is the only opportunity to move out of the confines of the four walls. Researches have also shown that outdoor exercises help improve the mood. A daily half an hour can make you feel energetic for the whole day.
Its Uncomplicated and Free: Now who can deny that a daily half an hour walk does not make the slightest dent in your pocket and helps to keep doctors and medicine away? You do not require complicated machines and routines to maintain your health. You can be your own fitness trainer. No one is too old or too young to take a walk for half hours and many doctors would prescribe that as one of the best medicines to maintain your health.
So don’t wait, go out and have a blast under the sun and in the wind. Take in the nature as you take the path to ensured good health.






