Health Benefits Of Outdoor Activities

It`s a well known fact that exercise of any kind has an unlimited number of health benefits; as well as cutting the risk of heart disease, stroke and burning fat (the list goes on), there are a number of psychological benefits including better self-esteem and reduced stress and anxiety as a result of chemicals released from the brain through physical exertion.

Where many people prefer exercising in the gym, taking exercise outdoors can offer a wealth of benefits and there are a number of sports and activities that you could get involved in, that are absolutely free!

Hiking / Walking
Surely one of the cheapest ways of keeping fit, hiking requires just a few basic essentials such as a good pair of shoes, waterproofs, and a rucksack to keep your flask in. The level of excursion will depend on the distance, route and your stamina but it is an exercise where you can easily break a sweat after just twenty minutes. Good for keeping the heart beating, filling the lungs with fresh air and for burning the calories, hiking has to be one of the most beneficial yet accessible activities there are.

Skating
Skating ranks as one of the most physical outdoor activities you can perform – particularly for the more advanced skater who is able to exercise even more muscles with their tricks. Skating can enhance balance, control weight, improve muscle tone and the best part is that it can easily be integrated into your everyday life – why not skate to the newsagent or even to work?

Surfing
As well as demanding great balance, surfing requires control and strength with the surfer`s upper body stroking through the water to give an aerobic and anaerobic workout. Almost all muscle groups will be used in surfing, and of course swimming and being out in the cold fresh sea will keep the blood circulating well. Surfing requires skill which comes through practise, but it is extraordinarily addictive and there is such a huge surfing community around the world waiting to welcome their latest recruits on board!

Camping
The idea of `going back to basics` seems very appealing to so many people which might be why camping has had a surge in popularity again over the last few years. It`s cheap, it`s fun, and it`s miles away from the stresses and headaches of the fast paced life you left behind. Reducing stress can be a major health benefit, it releases pressure from your heart and you exercise a host of muscles simply putting up the tent or hiking to your favourite destinations.

Keeping Healthy
Whilst doing any form of exercise will keep you fitter and healthier for longer, eating healthily will also increase your energy and keep the doctors away. An organic diet of unprocessed, natural food is the best way to ensure that only natural nutrients are being put into your body; and don`t forget to drink plenty of water, especially if you`re exercising regularly.

Wearing the right kind of clothing for your chosen outdoor activity can make a huge difference in how you perform and how safe you keep; whether the main aim is to keep you cool, warm or dry, there are a variety of styles and fits for everyone and every activity. Be sure to get a head start on looking right by visiting Billabong Surf Clothing.

Creation date : 22/08/2008 @ 16:26
Last update : 27/07/2010 @ 11:13
Category : Articles - Health
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