Heat aside, lovers of the great outdoors are happy to leave the gym and have fun while getting fit this summer.
Whether it’s hiking, climbing, inline skating or gardening, playing outside is not only enjoyable, but it also promotes good health.
“It doesn’t matter what you do, just do something,” said Melissa Johnson, an exercise physiologist with the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. It’s about getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week, she said.
While there’s no scientific evidence that being outside is better for you than exercising inside, Johnson said people tend to stay active longer when they’re having fun. And the longer you can work out, the better.
“Do what you enjoy so you can keep on doing it and make it a regular part of your life,” said Daniel Blumenthal, chairman and professor of the Department of Community Health and Preventive Medicine at Morehouse School of Medicine.
How the body handles exercise
We’re told to exercise because it’s good for us. Here’s what happens to your body during 30 minutes of physical activity:
– Heart rate increases.
– Blood pressure rises.
– Lungs expand.
– Muscles expend energy, which burns fat.
– Body temperature rises.
– Breathing rate increases (you breathe faster and more deeply).
– Blood pumps faster.
– Diameter of small blood vessels increases, carrying waste such as carbon dioxide away from the body.
– Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, are released.
Playing under summer sun
– Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, sports drinks and diluted fruit juices.
– Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.
– Opt for early-morning or late-evening hours.
– Wear sunscreen.
– Allow your body time to get used to hotter weather.
– Consult with your doctor about any medical conditions or medications.
[SOURCE: MAYO CLINIC].
