Discover the Benefits of Natural Fitness

When was the last time you went on a hike? Be honest. For most of us, it was probably our school excursions back in 12th grade. Fast forward a couple of years and the most walking we do is to walk to our door to pick up the Haleem we ordered online.

Yes, a lot of us do work out. But it’s mostly confined to the walls of our gym or our home. What are we, still in the lockdown era? Outdoor fitness has a lot of benefits and there are so many ways you can have fun in nature!

So, let’s take a look at some reasons why outdoor fitness is so great for you!

Gets You Breathing

In an era of vapes and BS4 cars, it’s important to keep your lungs and heart in tip-top shape. When you go cycling, jogging, or even hiking, it keeps your heart and lungs working. Why? The varied terrain of the outside offers a more challenging workout compared to boring treadmills and EFX machines. Exercising in the fresh air can even boost your stamina and endurance!

Get That D, Vitamin D

Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D which is essential for bone health and the functioning of the immune system. So yes, when you work out outside, you get exposure to sunlight promoting healthy vitamin D levels.

Your Fitness Improves (Obviously)

What’s great about working out in a natural environment is that the different terrains engage various muscle groups, so you have a much more holistic workout. Activities like trail running, mountain biking, and rock climbing test your strength, flexibility, and balance, making you your own version of Tiger Shroff!

Stress-Free Minds

The tranquil sounds of birds and water. The lush greenery. The fresh air. Just thinking of it all can put us at ease. Studies have shown that spending time in green spaces reduces cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone.

Makes Our Mood Go Up!

When you workout outdoors, it can boost your serotonin and endorphin levels, two hormones that make you happy! Yes, you can feel happy and that sense of accomplishment even when you workout indoors, but the feeling is so much more when you’re outside. Just try it yourself!

Improves Your Cognitive Function

Working out or just being in nature has been known to improve cognitive function and concentration. The natural stimuli that outdoor settings give us, enhance our mental clarity and focus, making it the best environment for both physical exercise and mental rejuvenation. If there was a solid internet connection in the forest, all of us at Kofuku would work inside trees like woodpeckers.

Building Communities

Now, we know this sounds like LinkedIn, but outdoor fitness activities often involve group participation, which creates a sense of community and belonging. Whether it's a local running club, a hiking group, or outdoor yoga classes, these activities encourage social interaction and support, so you can make a lot of friends!

Unlocking a Deeper Connection with the Outdoors

Now that you know why outdoor workouts are great for your body AND your mind, there are also some more underrated benefits. All of us at Kofuku understand the importance and power of nature. Why else would we be writing this blog? Feeling connected with nature is another massive reason why you should work out outside.

Be an Eco-Commando

When you’re in nature, you’ll feel one with the world and you’ll appreciate and fall in love with it so much more! And this could just be the start of a new you as you reduce, reuse, recycle and give back to nature!

Be Present, Not Distant!

Remember that scene where Master Oogway meditates by the cherry blossoms? How we’ve all yearned to experience that state of mind in that beautiful place. That’s because nature helps us stay grounded in the moment, promoting a meditative state that enhances mental clarity and emotional resilience.

Happy Soul, Easy Goals

Connecting with nature really gives you that spiritual feeling. And no, we aren’t talking about being a hippie. This isn’t Woodstock ‘69. But the beauty of nature can give you feelings of awe and reverence, channeling your own inner Osho.

Now, you might be wondering “What should I do to maximise my outdoor workouts?” We’ve broken it down for you, and when you follow these steps mindfully, your Bumble likes are going to skyrocket!

Inclusive Workouts

What’s great about working out outside is that you don’t have to pay for it! So, you’ll end up meeting people from various backgrounds, where different people participate, work out and help each other! The best workouts are truly the inclusive ones.

Choosing the Right Activity

Pick activities that you enjoy the most and find comfort in doing. Whether it’s going on a hike, climbing some boulders, or even sitting on a rock and meditating, find your groove and stick to it. Explore your local park, trails, and other outdoor spaces to find out new ways to exercise and be your own inspiration!

While there are so many advantages of working out outside, there are still many precautions that you have to take. The first is to wear sunscreen and remember not to be exposed to the sun for too long. Secondly, if you’re going on a nature hike, remember to spray on some bug repellent, so you don’t become a buffet for mosquitos. And as always, be mindful of the weather. You don’t want to get caught in the rain. Always let someone know your plans and carry your charged phone for emergencies.

Make outdoor fitness a regular part of your routine. You’ll become a much more interesting person and the life of the party! Try making some time for outdoor activities, even if it's a short walk during your lunch breaks. When you add nature into your daily life, it can significantly enhance your physical and mental well-being. Your ex wishes they were still with you now.

Outdoor fitness gives us a holistic way of getting fit. The fresh air, the green leaves, no blowing of horns, and the sound of water flowing, make us feel so much better and want to spend more time there!

Embrace the outdoors with open arms and experience the sheer effect of nature on your fitness journey. Whether you're an avid athlete or just starting your fitness adventure, the great outdoors awaits you with boundless opportunities for growth and well-being.