Take It Outdoors: Cautiously

October 2008

by Karla Podewils

www.KarlaPodewils.com

The fall season is quickly approaching and the heat of the summer has dwindled under cool ocean breezes. This is the perfect time to switch up your current exercise routine and take it outdoors! Running on the treadmill can be monotonous - who wants to stare at a blank, white wall anyways? Or, worse yet, strain your neck trying to watch T.V. Multi-tasking while exercising does not work. Period.

As a species we desire a connection with the natural world. Incorporating a workout outdoors even if only once a week can reduce tension, lower blood pressure, and can even increase your productivity when in the gym! Did you know that you can burn up to 10% more calories just by working out outdoors? I don't know about you, but I could sure use that bonus! A variety of factors contribute to that extra 10% including the temperature, wind resistance, and also the landscape to which you are applying your workout to (hills, bridges, nature trails, etc...). Plus, if you have joint problems like myself, running on the beach can actually be beneficial because unlike concrete and some treadmills, the sand absorbs the impact of your movement. This means less stress on the hips, knees, and ankles. Just be sure to lace up properly and if you are running outdoors obey all applicable laws.

If biking, wear protective clothing and a helmet. I can attest to the importance of this first hand. Four years ago I was struck by a car while riding my beach cruiser. As I was catapulted across the front end I was thinking to myself, "I hope I can land with the grace of a cat, and please God, grant me nine lives too!" It was as if time stood still, free flying in mid-air like a side-show circus act and thinking, "Is this really happening? REALLY?!?" Needless to say I landed like a flying Superman on my stomach with both arms straight out and my legs behind. My only blemish though was a tiny piece of gravel lodged under the skin of my left pinky. However, while I walked away whole the frame of my bike was mangled.

Moral of the story: be attentive while exercising outside. Resist the temptation to put yourself on auto-pilot. Playing outdoors can make you feel like a kid again. Play some flag football, a game of volleyball, run, bike, or whatever your little heart desires, just take it outside!