Get Inspired To Take Your Workout Outdoors

If you read my feature in the Metro from the Summer, you’ll know I swear by getting sweaty outdoors but it wasn’t always that way. A few years ago, you’d be hard pressed to catch me training outdoors especially if the weather wasn’t “perfect”. Then I took on a regular teaching gig where I had to turn up come rain or shine. I mean, I had to set the example right?! Through that experience, I learnt to love the outdoors and now the weather doesn’t really come into it. As long as you’re dressed for the weather you’ll be just fine to take your workout outdoors! 

“New research has revealed that 50% of UK adults spend less than an hour outside each day and 70% would like to spend more time outside.”

Metro, 2019

The quote above comes from a study conducted by Lindahls which highlighted that a large proportion of people say their ideal place to workout would be the great outdoors and they’d much rather do that than face the gym. And I get that. As much as I am a Fitness Professional, the gym is not my top choice for a workout either (with the exception of classes… i love classes!). So if you need some inspiration to get outdoors, read on! You’ll also find a simple park workout at the end of the post which I created for Metro earlier this year.

3 Reasons To Take Your Workout Outdoors

1/ Top Up Your Vitamin D

Vitamin D is one of the fat-soluble vitamins essential for us to have strong bones and a healthy immune system (read, keep yourself well) and it can be obtained from glorious sunshine. Just another reason to make the most of the sunshine when we get it! Don’t forget to stay safe and wear sunscreen in the Summer months though! 

2/ It’s Good For Your Mind, Heart & Soul

Working out outdoors isn’t just good for your heart and fitness levels, it’s also a great way to clear your mind, reenergise and focus. Your runs or workouts can (if you choose) become your “me” time. Spending time with other people can be just as therapeutic though. When it comes to running in particular, I find running in groups helps me to up the pace a little and challenge how fast I think I can run! 

3/ It doesn’t have to be traditional

So what I mean is you can do anything that gets you moving; it doesn’t always have to be a workout or running. Back in the day when I first wrote this post, The North Face were running Mountain Athletics sessions and all sorts of events and adventures from their London store. But you could simply get a group of friends together and play a game of old school rounders if you want a good laugh. If you’re anything like me though, be prepared for your competitive streak to come out!

A Simple Park Workout To Get You Outdoors*

The Workout:

Warm up: two minutes of brisk walking.

• Sumo squats x30
• 100-200 metre run
• Tricep dips x30
• 100-200 metre run
• Side lunges x30
• 100-200 metre run
• Pistol squats x30 (15 each leg)
• 100-200 metre run

For each 100-200m run, simply pick a spot in the distance – like another bench, a bin, a goal post – to run to and back to your workout spot.

Sumo Squats

Your legs can be wider than hip width for sumo squats – but keep your knees directly over your toes.

Tricep Dips

Use a park bench to rest your hands on and extend your legs straight out in front of you.

Side Lunges

Aim to dip as low as possible, keeping your back straight and your chest up.

Pistol Squats

This is simply a single-leg squat. Tap your bum against the edge of the bench as you lower down for added stability.

The best thing about taking your workout outdoors is that you don’t need equipment, there won’t be any membership fees and you can go at any time that suits you – which is perfect if you have young children or work unpredictable hours.

So, which will you choose indoors or outdoors?!

*This workout was originally devised by myself for a feature in the Metro Newspaper Online.

Elle

P.S Safety always comes first. If you are new to exercise ensure you seek advice from your GP. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids, wear appropriate clothing and carry out drills in a suitable space. Technique is paramount, and nothing should hurt. Should you experience pain, discomfort, nausea, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath etc, STOP and consult your GP.