The Great Outdoors
When British summer finally hits, there is nowhere else you’d rather be. From a plethora of festivals, events and even alfresco picnics in the park, there is so much to do and soak up, yeah, we’re looking at you vitamin D. And while we know you’re busy living your Hot Girl Summer, your fitness schedule doesn’t have to suffer, rather quite the opposite. By hopping off the treadmill and bringing your workouts to the outdoors, you are opening yourself up to a multitude of juicy benefits that Frame is here to tell you all about. So, buckle in as we explain how you can level up your fitness this July in the great outdoors.Think More Clearly
Getting up and out really is great for your mind, body and soul – not only that but it may in fact make you smarter. Yup, University Challenge, here we come!
A 2011 study which analysed the mental health of 53 people who were involved in outdoor activities for six weeks found that their concentration improved, and they were able to think more clearly. Not only that but their closeness to nature increased their well-being and decreased stress.
Sign us up for breaking a sweat outdoors so!
Whether it’s joining an outdoor class, we’ve got several going on this month at King’s Cross Granary Square and Angel, or simply getting out for a daily walk, getting out amongst nature really aids your wellness.
Plus, if there’s research to suggest that we can get fitter and feel better exercising outside, then there’s no time like the present to give it a go.
Revitalise Your Workouts
If you’re feeling a little lacklustre about your fitness journey now that we’re over halfway through the year, why don’t you think about mixing up your workouts with a little alfresco action?
Don’t take our word for it, there’s science behind why you should try it. According to a report published in Environmental Science and Technology journal, exercising outside creates greater feelings of revitalisation, energy, and positive thinking than breaking a sweat indoors does.
Not only that but you’ll have a greater intent to repeat and stick with your workout. Wow, working out outside really is the vibe.
A fan of mixing up her workouts is our very own Jayne Robinson, Frame’s Head of Content and Community, who says: “For the past few years, I’ve been planning my exercise around the weather and seasons. So, in Summer when the weather’s good I’ll plan to get outside in the fresh air and sun.
“It makes me feel very grounded and connected to mama nature and all her calming, wonderful gifts.”
Physical Benefits
If there was any more reason to love an alfresco workout this summer than perhaps this little morsel will – there’s evidence to suggest that exercise may feel easier when performed outdoors.
Mic drop.
A study from the University of Essex has suggested that being outside can act a as a “distractive stimulus” meaning that you can push yourself further and increase the physical benefits of your session.
Not only can it improve your performance, but research has shown that on average your post-exercise blood pressure returns to normal quicker after exercising in front of rural scenes compared to urban settings.
A more efficient recovery as well as movement that you’ll love and stick with? We only see wins here people.
Get Those Feel-Good Endorphins
Knowing that us Framers love feel-good endorphins, we couldn’t not discuss how outdoor workouts can be more beneficial for your mental health.
According to the Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute in Japan, being outside can reduce your stress hormone cortisol by as much as 15%.
Not only that but the positive effects of being around nature increase when you combine that with the endorphin-boosting act of movement. Sensational work altogether.
Giving it her seal of feel-good endorphin approval, Jayne adds of outdoor workouts: “I feel totally refreshed, energised, the elements can leave you tired in a really healthy way – blowing the cobwebs off.
“It can also help you sleep incredibly well, and sleep is a total feel-good essential.” Preach!
Workout Whenever You Want
Look, it’s Summer, we know you’re busy with breakaways and tinnies in the park – but that doesn’t mean your fitness plans have to suffer, actually it’s quite the opposite.
With the sunnier weather finally upon us, you have the luxury of being able to work out whenever you want. Whether it’s walking to work, trying one of our outdoor sessions at King’s Cross Granary Square or even bringing your Frame On-Demand classes to the garden, you can control your gym schedule all the while topping up your vitamin D.
That’s the beauty of the outdoors, it is always ready to go. Come at us heatwave!
Don’t just take our word for it but Jayne shares: “Variety is the spice of life.” That it bloody well is.
“It’s important to keep your exercise routine varied, this has benefits both mentally and physically,” she adds. “I dare you not to feel high on life after Cassie’s 80’s Aerobics on Friday mornings at the Canal Steps in Kings Cross.”