Outdoor Activities for a Healthier Life

The spring season has officially arrived, and the weather is finally getting warmer. This comfortable change in temperature gives you the opportunity to take part in outdoor activities that have a variety of associated health benefits.

Take a Hike

Going for a hike is a great way to burn some calories while taking in some of the beauty Mother Nature has to offer.

Overlooking mountaintop while hiking

Hiking is proven to have many health benefits, ranging from physical exercise you get when out on the trail, to emotional or mental relief that comes from being in nature.

National Park Service

The Benefits of Hiking

  • Builds muscle
  • Improves overall sense of balance
  • Boosts heart and respiratory health
  • May improve mental health and lower risk of depression

Go for a Swim

Swimming is an aerobic physical activity that also provides an incredible full-body workout. And the benefits are the same whether swimming in a natural body of water or at your local public swimming pool.

Swimmers have about half the risk of death compared with inactive people. People report enjoying water-based exercise more than exercising on land. They can also exercise longer in water than on land without increased effort or joint or muscle pain.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The Benefits of Swimming

  • Low impact, full-body workout
  • May decrease joint pain associated with arthritis
  • Improves cardiovascular health
  • Builds muscle
  • May reduce stress
  • Increases overall flexibility
Diving off cliff into the ocean

Go Running

As long as you have access to a safe path and a pair of decent sneakers, you can enjoy the physical and mental benefits running provides. Running also give you countless options to choose from in regards to the intensity, length, and overall structure of your workout. If you’re a newcomer to running, we have a helpful article on how to start a running routine.

The Benefits of Running

  • Improves cardiovascular and respiratory health
  • Boosts the immune system
  • May help in preventing high blood pressure
  • Great form of stress relief
  • Quick way to burn calories

Note: Since running is a moderate to high impact workout that can affect your knees, back and other body parts, it’s important to consult your doctor prior to beginning a running regimen.

Take a Bike Ride

Going for a bicycle ride is a fun way to burn calories while getting from point A to point B. Cycling is also a low impact exercise so it’s easier on your back and legs.

The Benefits of Cycling

  • Increases leg strength
  • Works out your core
  • May improve overall mental health
  • Eco-friendly option to get where you need to go
Family enjoying nature by a river

Just Get Outside!

Even if you’re not hiking, swimming, running or biking, just being outside has been associated with a variety of physical and mental health benefits.

So, what are you waiting for? Get outside and experience the benefits of the great outdoors for yourself!

 
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