Green exercise is exercise performed outdoors in the natural environment. It is also being shown to provide a number of positive benefits, beyond what the exercise itself provides.
First, you are moving your body and deliberately adding back into your day, what our modern, comfort based lifesyle has removed. Our body’s are setup and designed for movement, both cardio and strength based movement. Our body’s get better with use. They become more efficient, stronger, capable and functional when we challenge it with movement and extra loads.
Our modern lifestyle and all the tools we have revolve around making our life easier and more comfortable. So we need to make an effort to balance that out.
Second, exercising outdoors provides exposure to natural sunlight which helps regulate our circadian rhythms, which helps to improve our quality of sleep. A study published in 2014 showed that the combination of exercise in the ourdoors with sun exposure provided greater benefits too the quality of sleep, than exercise alone.
Third, many studies have shown exposure to natural sunlight positively effects mental health. Managing and maintaining our mental health is key to thriving both physically and mentally. This can be challenging during winter and when we are prioritising indoor activities.
Fourth, direct sunlight exposure (more specifically UVB rays) helps maintain our Vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is needed to help with calcium absorption which is needed to maintain healthy bone and teeth density and strength. With our modern lifestyle and a large portion of jobs keeping us indoors and away from direct natural sunlight, it’s important to get outdoors into the direct sunlight. Sunlight exposure through glass, does not facilitate Vitamin D production.
Further, a review of research studies into the benefits of green exercise, identified the following benefits:
- Exercise may feel easier when done in the outdoor natural environment
- People can feel more invigorated and positivelty engaged in exercise, when done in the outdoor natural environment
- Phsyiological stress markers appear to be reduced after spending time in nature and the outdoor natural environment
It’s important to note that sunlight exposure are associated with other health risks, like skin cancer. Here in Australia, there are recommendations available at Health Direct to balance both the health benefits and health risks associated with direct sun exposure. It can vary across locations and across the seasons, so be sure to follow what is recommended for your circumstances and use sun protection inline with these recommendations.
Disclaimer: The information on this blog is for general knowledge and education only. It is not personalized health or medical advice. We highly recommend you consult with your doctor before beginning any fitness program. Karen El-Azzi, the founder and sole trader of Thrive Together, and its coaches, are not liable for any injury or adverse effects that result from following the general information provided here.