Summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. But did you know that outdoor exercise in the summer has numerous benefits for your health? Here are some of the benefits of outdoor exercise in the summer:
- Increased vitamin D production
When you exercise outdoors in the summer, your body is exposed to sunlight, which is the best source of vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones and a strong immune system.
- Improved mood
Exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. When you exercise outdoors in the summer, the combination of exercise and exposure to sunlight can have an even greater positive impact on mood.
- More variety
When you exercise outdoors in the summer, you have a wider variety of activities to choose from. You can go for a run, hike, swim, bike ride, play a game of beach volleyball, or try any number of other outdoor activities.
- Increased calorie burn
When you exercise outdoors in the summer, your body has to work harder to regulate your temperature, which means you burn more calories. This can help you achieve your weight loss or fitness goals more quickly.
- Reduced stress
Exercise is a great way to reduce stress, and when you exercise outdoors in the summer, the calming effects of nature can help to further reduce stress and anxiety.
- Improved sleep
Exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality, and when you exercise outdoors in the summer, the exposure to sunlight can help to regulate your sleep cycle, leading to better sleep.
- More social opportunities
When you exercise outdoors in the summer, there are often more opportunities to be social and meet new people. You can join a local sports league, participate in a group fitness class, or simply meet friends for a workout in the park.
- Cost-effective
Many outdoor activities, such as hiking or running, require little to no equipment, making them a cost-effective way to get in shape and improve your health.
- Increased energy
Exercise is a natural energy booster, and when you exercise outdoors in the summer, the combination of exercise and sunlight can help to increase your energy levels and improve your overall sense of well-being.
- Better air quality
While indoor air quality can often be poor, outdoor air quality in the summer is typically much better. This can help to reduce the risk of respiratory problems and improve overall health.
In conclusion, outdoor exercise in the summer has numerous benefits for your health, including increased vitamin D production, improved mood, more variety, increased calorie burn, reduced stress, improved sleep, more social opportunities, cost-effectiveness, increased energy, and better air quality. So next time you’re thinking about skipping your workout, consider heading outside instead. Your body and mind will thank you.
Remember to always stay safe when exercising outdoors in the summer. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, and be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses. Enjoy the sunshine and all the benefits that come with outdoor exercise in the summer!
About The Author
Dr. Leo is a highly-qualified and dedicated primary care physician who graduated from Manila Central University College of Medicine in 2018. He passed the Physician Licensure Exam in 2019, and has since gained valuable experience practicing in various settings such as being a company physician, doctor-on-duty for outpatient clinics, and a telemedicine practitioner.
What sets Dr. Leo apart is his dual-certification as both a physician and a registered nurse, having passed the Philippine Nurse Licensure exam in 2012. He has a unique perspective on healthcare as he believes in taking a holistic approach addressing the root cause of an issue rather than just treating symptoms. He is dedicated to finding long-term solutions for current disorders and preventing new ones.