Have you ever wondered why so many people prefer running outdoors? According to researchers, outside running offers numerous health, mental and emotional benefits over indoor exercises. Let’s indulge in those benefits and understand why lacing up and hitting the trails is such a great idea.
Physical Health Benefits
There are multiple physical benefits of running outdoors, let’s explore them:
1. Increased Calorie Burn
Outdoor running often involves varying terrain, such as hills and trails, which can challenge your body more than a flat treadmill resulting in increased calorie burn.
2. Improved Balance and Coordination
Running on uneven surfaces can considerably improve your coordination and balance. The small adjustments the body makes while running over hilly or uneven terrain can strengthen the muscles that aid in balance.
3. Enhanced Bone Health
Running in general is a weight-bearing exercise which strengthens the bones and helps in the prevention of osteoporosis. Running outdoors further enhances this benefit due to the extra forces exerted as you fight gravity especially when going uphill.
Mental Health Benefits
In addition to the physical advantages, running outdoors also provides vital mental health benefits.
1. Stress Reduction
Exposure to nature during outdoor running is linked to lower levels of stress and anxiety. The natural scenery can be calming, promoting inner peace and relaxation.
2. Boosted Mood
Exercising outdoors increases the production of endorphins, also known as ‘feel-good’ hormones, more than the similar exercise indoors, improving your mood and overall sense of happiness.
Emotional Health Benefits
Running outdoors can play a key role in improving your emotional health and can add a sense of joy to your daily exercise routine:
1. Connection with Nature
Running outdoors gives you the chance to connect with nature. Be it running along a beach, through a park or atop a mountain, the connection we make with nature can have profound effects on our well-being.
2. Increased Self-esteem
Overcoming challenges related to outdoor running, such as conquering a steep hill or completing a trail run, can boost your sense of achievement and self-esteem.
3. Social Interaction
Running outdoors often provides opportunities for social interactions is often one of the most treasured aspects of outdoor running.
Safety Tips
To harness these benefits safely, consider some tips: dress appropriately for the weather, wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, make sure your path is clear, and whenever possible, run with a partner.
Running outdoors offers staggering benefits, from strengthening your body to soothing your mind and boosting your mood. So next time, instead of hitting the treadmill, try running outside, the world is your playground!
