067 - 15 Good Reasons Why You Should Be Training Outside

Oct 22, 2019

I'm a huge fan of training outdoors, regardless of whether it's hot or cold. There are a number of reasons I personally like it, but today I want to talk about why you should be incorporating it into your own routine.

1. You get some quality natural sunlight and some added Vitamin D. I’m deficient and I’m outside all the time and I know it's an issue for many men. Plus, it improves sleep and fights off depression.
   
2. Solitude. Being outdoors alone improves concentration and increases productivity. It also helps you work through problems more effectively and allows you to reboot your brain and unwind.
   
   
3. It's fun. Enjoying your workouts is critical for long-term success. Consistency is key and if you don't like what you're doing, you won't stick to it for long.
4. It allows you to get creative with your workouts.
5. Family time. Try hitting the park with your kids and turn your workout into family time. Involve them. Let them have fun.
6. Get you out of the artificial environment. We're in cars, cubicles, and gyms all the time and it's filled with artificial lights (and smells).
7. It's good for the soul. I'm not a spiritual guy, but you can't not feel good when you're outside training.
8. Time Efficient. The #1 excuse I hear why so many of you aren’t fit is a lack of time. Outdoor training is non conventional and you can get an amazing workout in 20 minutes or less. Plus, no waiting for machines and no commutes. You probably have a park within walking distance. Many of the workouts I do in the Inner Circle are 15-20 minutes and they work very well.
   
   
9. Boosts your mood and energy. We all can benefit from this.
10. No equipment needed. Bodyweight training works great for building strength, losing fat, and getting fit. I like to bring a suspension trainer, tire sled, or sandbag sometimes, but those are optional.
11. Immune system boost. A study in the International Journal of Immunopathology found that breathing in small amounts of airborne plant chemicals improves your immune responses by 50%.
    
    
12. Breaks up your routine and monotony. Getting your butt outside is a great way to avoid ruts.
13. Muscle confusion. Yes, it's good to mix up your workouts (to a point) and training outside like at a park will work muscles you haven't felt in years.
14. Challenging terrain. Training on grass, rocks, sand, diet, etc. will challenge you in a way that can't be done in a gym. You'll work on ankle stability while your training and running hill sprints is one of the best exercises you can do.
15. It's FREE! Yes, you can get into amazing shape without spending a dime on gym memberships or fancy equipment. A park has enough bars, ropes, swings, platforms, and benches to work every muscle in your body. You just need to get creative.

In the Fit Dad Nation Inner Circle, we have a huge library of outdoor workouts for you to use and it's growing by the week! Join the brotherhood at fitdadnation.com/innercircle