The Benefits of Green Exercise: A Journey into Nature's Gym

Have you ever wondered why a simple walk through the park feels like a mini holiday for your mind and body? 

It's not just your perception - there's a vast body of research behind the benefits of exercising outdoors, or "green exercise." 

So, lace up your outdoor shoes, grab your water bottle and join me as we explore why exercising in nature is a game-changer for your health.

What is Green Exercise?

Green exercise refers to any physical activity that takes place in a natural setting, whether it's a park, forest, beach, or even your garden. 

The idea is simple but powerful: combining physical activity with the natural environment can amplify the benefits of exercise (Li et al., 2023). 

This isn't just about burning calories; it's about boosting your overall wellbeing in ways that go beyond what you might achieve in a traditional gym setting.

Why Green Exercise is Good for You

Physical Benefits

The World Health Organization (2018) highlights physical activity as a cornerstone of good health, playing a critical role in preventing and managing non-communicable diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and even certain cancers. Exercise improves body composition, enhances motor skills, and helps manage stress. 

But, the benefits can be even greater when you take that workout outside.

The idea that nature has healing properties isn't new. Ancient medics like Hippocrates believed that "nature itself is the best physician." Modern research supports this view, showing that spending time in nature can profoundly boost mental and physical health.

Studies have shown that green exercise can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), reduce blood pressure, and boost your immune system (Ideno et al., 2017; Park et al., 2010). 

This means you're not just getting fit but also fortifying your body against various health issues.

Mental and Emotional Benefits

The psychological benefits of green exercise are equally impressive. Engaging with nature during exercise has been linked to reduced anxiety and depression, improved mood, and even improved cognitive function (Amaya et al., 2021; Lawton et al., 2017). 

Nature's visual beauty, combined with its calming sounds and fresh air, can make exercise feel less like a chore and more like a therapeutic escape (Rogerson et al., 2023).

Simply looking at nature can reduce stress and improve mood! Studies have shown that exposure to natural environments can reduce rumination, improve working memory, and increase feelings of awe. This powerful emotion can lead to greater happiness and a sense of purpose (Bratman et al., 2019).

Research has also found that people who exercise outdoors experience greater enjoyment and lower perceived exertion than those who work out indoors (Pretty et al., 2007; Richardson et al., 2013). In other words, the same workout outside might feel less taxing than in the gym.

Multisensory Engagement

One fascinating aspect of green exercise is its ability to engage multiple senses. The sight of lush greenery, the sound of birds chirping, and the smell of fresh pine can all contribute to a more immersive and restorative experience. This multisensory stimulation can make your workout more enjoyable and effective (Franco et al., 2017).

Outdoor classes at The Barn KT9

Now, let's talk about how to experience the benefits of green exercise at The Barn KT9. 

Our Gym started outside during the pandemic when there was no other option for safe exercise. We held classes under Olive’s Tipi and reaped the benefits of the fresh air, moving our bodies and the community that we built in challenging times. 

Since then we’ve evolved and built our unique Gym space but, we still wanted there to be an option for people to take their workouts into nature, so we set up the Hangar with everything that we would need to run regular UpLift, M.F.T and Traction classes (and the odd Yoga/Pilates). 

So many of you have told us how much you enjoy working out, looking across the fields, watching the sunset or sunrise, seeing nature unfold as you track your lifts or take your stretches. 

Step Outside and Thrive

The next time you consider where to work out, think beyond the gym walls. 

Green exercise offers many benefits that can transform your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. And, if you're looking for a unique way to get started, try one of our outdoor classes at The Barn KT9. It's a refreshing take on fitness that combines the best of nature with the joy of movement.

Step outside, and let nature be your gym. Your body and mind will thank you.