Many of us are settling into the rhythm of summer. While the heat may tempt us to stay indoors, the season’s long days and warm weather still offer plenty of opportunities to move outside.

TOPS Club Inc., the nonprofit weight-loss support organization, encourages regular movement as part of a healthy lifestyle. While gyms and indoor classes can be helpful, exercising outdoors offers added benefits for both physical and mental well-being.

No matter where you exercise, a regular movement routine and a healthy diet will help you shed pounds. But outdoor exercise offers several other benefits.

GIVE YOUR HEALTH A BOOST

Many people spend much of the day sitting, often in front of a screen. Stepping outside can help us feel revitalized and rejuvenated because we’re able to be away—at least for a little bit—from the demands of our day-to-day life.

Outdoor movement can help people feel more refreshed, connected and energized. Spending time in nature has been linked to reduced stress and improved happiness, creativity and productivity.

LET FRESH AIR LIFT YOUR MOOD

Sunlight also helps the body produce vitamin D, which supports immune health, muscle function and brain activity. For many people, outdoor activity also supports better sleep because exercise and natural light both help regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle.

MAKE YOUR WORKOUT WORK HARDER

Exercising outside makes our workouts more effective. That’s because our brain focuses less on unimportant stimuli and increases our attention to the task at hand—meaning we train harder when outside. 

SUMMER ACTIVITIES THAT KEEP YOU MOVING

The physical and mental health benefits of outdoor exercise can come from many activities, whether you prefer to walk with friends, take an outdoor yoga class or go for a run in the neighborhood.

Here are a few warm-weather activities to try:

• Kayaking: Local outfitters near riverfront parks, such as Las Colonias Park in Grand Junction and Riverbottom Park in Montrose, offer kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals. Spending time on the water provides a good upper-body workout, targeting the shoulders, arms, back and core.
• Hiking or cycling: Both activities can improve cardiovascular endurance and support heart health. They also offer a chance to unplug, enjoy the scenery and socialize with others.
• Roller skating: For those worried about their knees, roller skating can be a lower-impact option because it does not put as much pressure on the joints. Plus, the adrenaline rush will make you feel like a kid again.
• Gardening: Tending to plants, flowers, fruits and vegetables can provide a good workout. Bending, twisting, digging and pulling weeds can strengthen the core and keep the body moving.  

Visit Tops.org for more information. Find local meetings in our Support Group listings. 


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