It’s good to change up your workouts, and changing scenery is just as important. Ireland may be known for its turbulent weather, but it’s essential to enjoy the warmer temperatures and blue skies whenever possible. It’s the best opportunity to take your workout outdoors. Not only will you get in a great workout, but you’ll also get some fresh air and some much-needed Vitamin D— something everyone living in Ireland is lacking!
Don’t restrict yourself to just running outdoors; with just a few inexpensive pieces of equipment, you can get in a great workout in your very own back garden or local park.
Why is it beneficial to work out outdoors?
There is a common saying in Ireland, 'The fresh air will do you a world of good' but how true is that statement? According to health professionals, it's a pure fact. Even getting out for ten minutes a day will help you in the long run. Here are a few reasons why working out outside is beneficial for all.
A. It puts you in a good mood
Whenever the sun is out, you tend to see that people are friendlier, happier, and overall, in a good mood. The sunshine naturally increases serotonin, while working out produces endorphins, another mood-boosting hormone. Between your serotonin and endorphin levels rising, working out outdoors has been known to ward off seasonal depression and anxiety.
B. A more challenging workout
The terrain outside is natural and not synthetic and smooth like a gym. It will challenge you more when you are exercising, giving you a tougher workout each time.
C. Improves mental health
Working out outdoors can be a mental relief. If you have an office job or are working somewhere indoors, being outside with the ever-changing scenery will help you unwind and reduce your stress levels. Being outside in the fresh air for even a few minutes can help ease the tension in your body.
D. No cost
Gym costs can be expensive, and for some, they are unaffordable. Going outside is free, and there are numerous areas you can go for free to get a varied workout. You can choose from a forest to a public park to your back garden without paying any money. Even better, the air is fresh and clean, whereas being inside or in a gym, the air can sometimes feel a bit stale.
Workout Essentials
Now that we know some of the benefits of being outdoors, here are 5 essential items to bring for an outdoor workout.
1. Kettlebell
Kettlebells are a versatile piece of training equipment that will help build strength while also building cardio endurance. There are countless benefits of using a kettlebell in your daily workout routine. Depending on the exercise you do, you can target various muscle groups. By using a kettlebell, you can burn a lot of calories and with the added benefit of combining it with cardio to give you a full-body workout.
Want to know more about kettlebell workouts? Be sure to check out our blog on Killer Kettlebell Workouts.
2. Slam Ball
Although they are a slightly heavier item to carry outside, they are an excellent tool for functional training and are available in several different weights. They add an extra level of resistance that you can’t get from other non-traditional pieces of equipment. As well as the traditional uses for slam balls such as floor slams and a side throw against a wall, you can use them for core exercises as they add an unstable surface for push-ups giving an extra bit of difficulty.
3. Yoga Mat
If you want to work out outdoors, then having a stable, smooth surface is a must. A Yoga mat is an inexpensive workout essential for outdoor training. You will be able to work out anywhere outside without fear of injuring yourself. You can use them to do a relaxing yoga workout outdoors, stretching or as a base for a HIIT bodyweight workout. Getting a folding mat will make it easy to carry and store when you are finished.
4. Speed Rope
Everyone has jumped rope at one point in their life, and if you haven’t, now is the perfect time to start! This simple yet effective workout accessory can be packed in any bag and are great for travelling. They are the perfect cardio tool that can get your heart rate up quickly! When you get comfortable with the rope, why not give a double under a try? This is where you try and get the rope under your feet twice before landing back down.
5. Loop Bands
Loop bands are a low-cost piece of equipment that is a versatile and great strength and conditioning tool. They come in various sizes and resistance levels, letting you vary your workout and focus on different muscles. The inexpensive loop bands add extra resistance to bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges, kickbacks, and crab walks.
Want to know more about Loop Bands? Why not check out our blog post, The Power of Power Bands.
All these items are easy to move outside and will give you a full-body workout. Be sure to enjoy the good weather in Ireland when it comes as it doesn’t stay for long. Be sure to check out the 7 workout essentials for travelling if you want to know easier to carry accessories to help you workout.
