Running is a good exercise to keep in shape. It is a form of aerobic exercise, which means it helps enhance the function of the heart and cardiovascular system in oxygen transportation and absorption. It has a higher intensity than jogging, although jogging is also considered an aerobic exercise.
RUNNING OUTSIDE VS TREADMILL EXERCISE
Running on a treadmill is also a good form of exercise, however, many find it monotonous and it is not preferred by those who want some challenge. Running on a treadmill is ideal, when considering the weather, or if you want a more controlled environment or pace, or if the neighborhood you are living in is not ideal for outside running. Outside running requires more energy and endurance.
Pros of Outside Running
Here are the benefits of running outside, if you are looking for good physical exercise.
FREE
You do not have to pay a subscription to a gym because you can do this exercise without spending anything.
ENHANCED WELL-BEING
Exercising in natural surroundings allows positive vibes and renewal. It also reduces stress and pessimistic feelings and pumps up energy. Others feel better after running outdoors than by exercising indoors.
BETTER VIEW
In connection to enhanced well-being, running outdoors allows you to have a better view than looking at gym equipment or other health buffs. You get to see the wonders of nature and other life forms. You get to inhale fresh air. Looking at a better view also gives better memory retention and alertness.
CALORIE-BURNING
A person expends more energy on running, hence, means more calories are burned. You also exert more effort as you hurdle through humps and bumps and winding roads. Outdoor running also helps in maintaining a healthy weight.
GOOD TRAINING FOR COMPETITION
Thinking of joining a marathon or a race? Running outside is the best groundwork as you get to experience possible weather alteration, irregular surfaces, and prepares your body for what you will expect in a race.
LONGER EXERCISE TIME
When you are on a treadmill, you get to stop whenever you feel like it or you rely on a fixed time. But by running outside, you get to be outdoors for a long time because you encounter a lot outdoors. When you reach a place, you still need to run back or walk back to your home and that adds to your exercise time.
SUNSHINE VITAMIN
When you exercise outside, you get exposed to sunlight, which is the source of vitamin D. The body needs Vitamin D or sunshine vitamin for better calcium absorption and strengthening the immune system.
STRENGTHENS MUSCLES AND BONES
Since running is a weight-bearing form of exercise, it facilitates strengthening muscle and bone function. More muscles are set in motion because you do not move in a monotonous, linear pattern. There are more muscle and bone injuries from stationary running than treadmill running since it follows a repetitive pattern. Running outside improves base strength.
Make sure that you have the right shoes and adequate fluid before running outdoors. Consult your doctor if this is your first time running outside or you have not done this for a long time, especially if you have comorbidities. Safety is always the priority.