5 Reasons you should take your workout outdoors

We might have a few chilly, wet weeks ahead of us, but the benefit of exercising out outdoors are considerable. So, as tempting as it is to snuggle up and hibernate, here are 5 reasons you should head outside.

Be in Nature. Loads of studies show that being in nature just makes you feel better! Renewed energy, decreased stress, or an increased sense of enthusiasm and aliveness are just some of the feelings you can expect from being outside. And luckily, we have some great spaces in locally that you can enjoy.

Disconnect from Technology. Many of us spend too much of our days indoors using technology for work-related or personal reasons. And as the days become shorter, it’s easy to spend days at a time barely going outside. But being outside gives you the opportunity to switch technology off. It helps clear your mind and reduces stress.

Better Health. Immersing yourself in nature helps reduce the risk of diseases such as type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It lowers cortisol levels (i.e. stress), lowers pulse rate and high blood pressure. That’s an impressive fix.

Boost your Immunity. Being outside means you will get higher levels of vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin. Vitamin D is thought to affect everything from cancer development, mental health, or your ability to beat the common cold.

It burns more calories. Temperature plays a huge part in how many calories you burn during exercise. Exercise is harder when it’s cold, because your body works harder to keep warm. Wind provides natural resistance, and uneven terrain adds an element of instability to your workout.

So yes, we’re outside in all weather… But don’t just take it from me. Here’s what some of our lovely clients say:

I used to hate exercise. I hated working out in the dark. I also hate working out in the rain! However I enjoy the natural high of exercise and how it makes me feel afterwards. This trumps the hate and the hard feelings. Plus this group has a great energy!

Sunny S

I thought it would be horrible working out outdoors in winter, but I learnt that it’s NEVER too cold to work out if you’ve got gloves and a hat! The sense of wellbeing and extra energy you get afterwards is even more welcome in winter. I truly believe Melita kills the winter blues for me – something to do with the fresh air, the endorphins, and the sense of all being in it together.  – Emma A

Emma A

Being outdoors is so much better than outdoors at any time of the year.  I find the ‘bad’ weather is invigorating and makes me feel alive in a strange way. And you get a bigger sense of achievement when you’ve exercised in the rain.

Emma C

We’re all in it together! The support from each other, encouragement from the trainers and feeling of achievement at the end is amazing. Being outdoors in the elements feels great. Wind, rain, snow, we always end up laughing, peeling off the layers and congratulating each other for turning up!

Laura B