Healthy Diet Base Better choice for better life!
Your local park is one of the best places to exercise, get close to nature and improve health! Unfortunately, not a lot of people are keen on the idea of working out in the local park. If you’re one of these people, you are definitely missing out. In today’s post, we are listing down the surprising fitness and health benefits of your local park:
It Promotes Physical Activity
In a landmark report by the U.S. surgeon general, people who engage in regular physical activity reduce their risk of premature death significantly. Being active does not just lead to a fit body, it also cuts the risk of cardiovascular diseases, lung problems, diabetes and cancer. How?
When you’re always on the move, the muscles are always activated. This helps tone the body and boost muscle strength. This leads to better mobility and healthy joints. When you’re physically active, less adipose fat accumulate in the organs. This improves physical performance. Essentially, being active is good for the cardiovascular, respiratory, circulatory and endocrine systems! Being fit also produces important psychological benefits too. It reduces emotional and behavioral disorders like depression and anxiety.
Increases Frequency of Exercising
Let’s face it, one of the reasons why people think twice about getting a gym membership is the cost. Gym memberships are expensive and not all people want to make that commitment every year. The local gym gives you a large space to work out and stay fit, for free! This reduces the risk of obesity without the added costs.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that the creation of an easy-to-access space for physical activity increases fitness by 48%. The same study found that spaces meant for physical activity promote “aerobic capacity, along with weight loss, a reduction in body fat, improvements in flexibility, and an increase in perceived energy” among residents.
In a separate study by the RAND Corporation, young women who live near parks participate more in physical activity as opposed to young women who live farther away.
Eco-Friendly Way to Work Out
Most gym-goers neglect to think that gyms are one of the worst energy-sucking establishments there are. From gym machines to the sauna, gyms require massive levels of electricity to make every exercise and fitness tools work.
On the other hand, the local park does not depend on electricity to promote fitness. You can take advantage of the space to go biking, jogging, even playing with your pet for fitness and so much more. Sure, you have to find creative ways to get moving in the local park, but this is the greenest way to stay in shape.
Promotes Fitness in Seniors
Seniors do not get as much exercise as they should. But taking them to the local park helps keep them in shape.
Studies found that even short walks help improve health, especially in aging patients. Walking for 30 minutes per day is more than enough to keep the bones strong and the muscles toned. The park presents a stimulating environment that promotes physical activity. From walking to light jogging, a local park is an ideal place for seniors to get some exercise and fresh air.