Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Those of you taking INSANITY Boot Camp already know the joys of exercising outside, but it never hurts to have a few reminders.

Here's our top 5 reasons for exercising outdoors:

5. It gives those cardio machines a rest! Did you know that the average treadmill can produce about 2 pounds of CO2 over the course of a 30-minute workout? That coupled with the energy it takes to power the machine, power the lights in the gym, and maybe even that television you watch when running - you can clearly see why just going for a run outdoors instead of indoors can make a difference!

4. Better results! It's a well-known fact that when exercising, trying something different than your normal routine can boost your results! At INSANITY Boot Camp we are always swapping up what we/you do 3 times a week so on your days off go for a hike!

3. You'll never be bored with your workout! There's always something new to see and somewhere new to conquer! Whether you just take your run down a few new streets in your community, find a new trail in the mountains, check out a different park, or even go somewhere entirely new on vacation - nature will never let you down!

2. It's a "Confidence" booster! May sound strange, but it's true! A new study shows that even small doses of outdoor activity can boost your mood and self esteem. Not to mention that research shows that people who enjoy outdoor activities generally have a feeling of accomplishment from "roughing it" in less-than-perfect weather. Consider that next time it's raining and you are thinking about skipping your morning INSANITY Boot Camp. :) "Wait unless Thunderstorms!".

1. The vitamin D! According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, most individuals can meet their daily vitamin D requirement through just normal exposure to the sunlight in about 15 to 20 minutes. Vitamin D works to regulate your hormones, your mood and is essential in the absorption of calcium. Studies also show that vitamin D helps to boost the immune system. It is important to remember that when it comes to the sun - there IS such a thing as too much of a good thing, so remember to wear your sunscreen (SPF 15 should do it without over doing it for most people).

If you aren't able to get outside today (INSANITY Boot Camp will have you covered 5:15 am Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday or Starting in July 9:00 pm Tuesday/Thursday. INSANITY Boot Camp has a drop in rate so get some friends and get involved!