Do you ever feel unsafe when exercising outdoors? A lot of women would relate and answer yes to the question. Given the increased crime rates and shady activities going on, people especially women are wary of exercising outdoors.
There’s always this fear of being robbed, kidnapped, or harassed. Fears and concerns of exercising outdoors are valid but that doesn’t mean we stop breathing fresh air and confine ourselves to the four walls of apartments.
In this blog, we are discussing ways to keep ourselves safe when exercising outdoors. So stay tuned!
The lack of visible security personnel, emergency call points, or a sense of community support can contribute to feelings of insecurity.
Exercise in well-lit places to improve visibility and reduce the risk of encountering potential threats.
Exercise with a friend or in groups. There's safety in numbers, and having a workout partner can deter unwanted attention.
Let someone know your workout plans, including the route and expected duration. This ensures that someone is aware of your whereabouts.
Consider carrying a personal alarm that can emit a loud sound to attract attention in case of an emergency.
Stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. Limit distractions, such as wearing headphones at a low volume, to stay alert.
If a situation doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and remove yourself from it. It's okay to prioritize your safety over pushing through a workout.
Consider taking self-defense classes to build confidence and learn techniques that can help you protect yourself if needed.
Utilize technology for safety. Share your location with trusted contacts, carry a fully charged phone, and have emergency numbers saved.
Exercise in well-frequented areas where there are likely to be other people around. Avoid isolated or poorly populated locations.
There are various safety apps designed for personal security. These apps may include features like emergency alerts, real-time location sharing, and virtual companion services.
Whenever possible, schedule outdoor workouts during daylight hours when visibility is better.
Exercising outdoors offers a range of physical, mental, and social benefits, making it a valuable and holistic approach to maintaining overall well-being. Let’s explore some key reasons why exercising outdoors is important for you.
Exposure to natural sunlight allows the body to produce vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.
Outdoor exercise has been linked to reduced levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The combination of physical activity and exposure to nature contributes to enhanced mood and mental well-being.
Outdoor environments often provide varied terrains, which can challenge different muscle groups and improve overall physical fitness. The changing terrain can lead to a more comprehensive and effective workout.
The variety and novelty of outdoor settings can help prevent workout monotony, keeping individuals more motivated to engage in regular physical activity.
Outdoor exercise typically exposes individuals to fresher air, which can be particularly beneficial for respiratory health. Improved air quality can contribute to better cardiovascular function and overall endurance.
Connection with Nature:
Being outdoors allows individuals to connect with nature, promoting a sense of calmness and mindfulness. This connection can have positive effects on mental and emotional well-being.
Outdoor exercise often requires minimal or no equipment, making it a cost-effective way to stay active. Walking, running, cycling, and bodyweight exercises can be done without the need for a gym membership or specialized equipment.
Exercising outdoors provides opportunities for social interaction, whether it's joining a group fitness class, participating in sports, or simply walking with a friend. Social connections contribute to a sense of community and support.
Exposure to natural light and fresh air can boost energy levels and combat feelings of fatigue. This, in turn, can improve overall productivity and focus throughout the day.
The outdoors offer a wide range of physical activities, from hiking and biking to swimming and team sports. This variety allows individuals to tailor their exercise routine to personal preferences and interests.
Regular outdoor exercise has been associated with a strengthened immune system, helping the body defend against illnesses and infections.
Exposure to natural light during the day can help regulate the body's internal clock, promoting better sleep at night. Regular physical activity is also linked to improved sleep quality.
Running and Jogging are great for cardiovascular health and improve stamina and overall fitness.
Yoga and Pilates improve flexibility, balance, and core strength. Performing these exercises outdoors adds a calming and grounding element to your practice.
Fearing things and people makes them stronger and we gain nothing out of it except for low esteem and low confidence. Therefore, it’s important that you don’t exercise or skip outdoor activities due to these fears. It’s great to be cautious but by boycotting outdoor activities you are only allowing these fears to overpower you.
