Sadly, it doesn't appear that COVID is going away anytime soon, so its vital that we all stay healthy and as fit as possible to avoid becoming ill.
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has forced people to interact with familiar surroundings in new ways. While bedrooms and kitchens have become office spaces, gardens and outdoor areas within walking distance of our homes have become the new gym.
Nature has always been a source of solace for many, and the recent lockdowns have heightened our appreciation for local parks and green spaces. Staying active and fit is vital for people of all ages and abilities to lower the risk of infections
According to I-Min Lee, professor in the Department of Epidemiology at Harvard School of Public Health, outdoor workouts are a safer option than exercising inside a gym at the current time. Regular physical exercise is good not only for you physically, but also mentally and during this uncertain time, it can be an anchor to remain grounded and sane.
At Get Fit Today, we have always known that exercising outdoors offers so many more benefits that inside a stuffy gym sharing exercise equipment and wiping things down before you start and after you finish. At the current time, why put yourself at any risk?
In Northampton we are extremely lucky to have so many parks and open spaces and our flagship venue in Abington Park is just incredible with over 67 hectares of grassland, lakes, wooded areas and gorgeous historic buildings - what an amazing surroundings to exercise in. Grange Park, St. Crispins and Hackleton all also have wonderful outdoor areas with lots of space available for us to exercise safely and effectively during the pandemic.
January is always the time of year that we see unprecedented numbers of people registering for a FREE trial with us, which is great and we welcome everyone along.
If you are reading this and would like to try a FREE trial, please just click this link.
We offer over 50 sessions a month across 4 venues in Northampton with memberships starting at just £25!
Benefits of exercising outdoors:
It lowers blood pressure and reduces stress
Studies have shown that physical activity outdoors lowers a person's blood pressure and heart rate. As a result, exercise outdoors feels less strenuous than similar exercise indoors, which, in turn, pushes you closer to your maximum performance.
Variation in your regular workout
At Get Fit Today, an instructor will lead you through a different workout at every session, so not only do you not have to think about it or plan what you will do, you're also never going to get bored either. We prioritise bodyweight exercises which are multi-joint movements and therefore super effective! A bodyweight workout will enhance your coordination, balance and mobility in particular
The chance to train together
Training outdoors is an excellent opportunity to meet new people while getting fit and active. Our members are all like-minded individuals who want to stay health and fit and make some new friends in the process.
Better mood
All in all, outdoor exercise benefits the whole body by bringing joy, well-being and a better mood! When you exercise, your body releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins. This chemical induces feelings of euphoria and happiness and elevates your mood. Endorphins naturally reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Even the lightest form of exercise prompts your body to release these chemicals. However, spending time outside can increase these benefits
Surroundings
When you are active outdoors, whether running, walking, hiking, or biking, the elements can really challenge your body. The environment around you is always changing. Even slight changes, such as inclines, bumps, holes, or obstacles, force you to adapt and work harder. Even changes in the weather, such as the heat and breezes, can increase the difficulty of your workout
Burns more calories
Due to the fact that the environment, landscape and weather is always different when you exercise outside, your body has to work harder to adjust. Your muscles have to work much harder to complete movements you could do with ease in a gym and the harder your body works, the more calories you will burn!
So, what do you think? Have we convinced you of the benefits of exercising outdoors?
Fancy coming along to try a FREE taster session?
Here is the link you need - we look forward to seeing you in the park soon.
