Why You Should Run Outside
Do you hate cardio like a sane person?
If you perform cardio with any type of effort to elevate your heart rate and sustain it like how activity that constitutes cardio should be performed, then one of the reasons you hate cardio is because it’s hard.
However, since you’re not by definition performing actual cardio because you’re like virtually everybody else in not pushing yourself when doing it, the difficulty of your “cardio” isn’t why you hate it.
Hmmmm…so what other reason could there be for your hatred then?!
Well, performing cardio on a treadmill in a climate-controlled environment has the advantage of being comfortable but it can also get very, very boring. If you’re like most sane people, that boredom is why you loathe having to do cardio.
Know what can liven cardio up a bit?
Yup, running outside!
Running outside generally fares as less monotonous and boring than treadmill running mainly because the scenery changes, if not also the terrain, which provides variety, the spice of life.
So hate cardio?
Then, yeah, try doing it outdoors.
Running outside has the potential to make cardio less tedious and that’s the reason why you should do it over treadmill running if enjoyment is what’s going to make you consistent. Other than that, there’s no major difference between the two forms of running. Outdoor running and treadmill running both offer the same benefits to physical and mental health, though outdoor running might have the edge on the latter, as studies have found that green exercise, or working out in nature, has a slightly more positive effect than indoor activity at boosting self-esteem and mood and decreasing feelings of tension, confusion, anger, and depression.
INSTRUCTIONS:
• Plan your running route in advance.
• Check the weather and dress accordingly.
• Wear bright colors or reflective clothing to make it easier for drivers to see you.
• Bring your license, ROAD iD bracelet, or some other type of identification so first responders know who you are and who to contact in case of emergency.
• Bring water in a hand-held bottle or hydration vest.
• Stash your keys, snacks, sunscreen, and other small items in a waist pack or running vest.
• Carry cash or a card for emergency purchases.
• Bring your phone to call for help, to look up directions if you get lost, or to request a ride if you end up further from home than expected.
• Run against the flow of traffic so you can keep an eye on cars.
• Avoid unfamiliar paths, trails, roads, and areas that aren’t well-lit.
Glossary: cardio, treadmill, work out
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