Imagine Fitness

Well it looks like the nicer weather is finally here. Are you looking to add some variety and new challenges to your routine? How about taking your workout outdoors. Something as simple as a walk can take on a whole new dimension when you step outside.  If you have been a regular treadmill or elliptical trainer over the winter, chances are your body has adjusted to the work load and actually been more efficient to the point that you are working less hard.

Our bodies are very good at mastering a skill and before you know it, you are burning less calories than you were before. Why is taking the workout outside more of a challenge?

1. Uneven Terrain

Even tiny differences in the path makes it more challenging to do your walk. Especially is this true if you are walking on unpaved surfaces. You are required to  balance more making your core and legs work hard.

2. The weather

Ever notice how hard it is to walk or run into a wind? This extra effort requires your body to work harder and thus you burn more calories. If it is a sunny day you will become fatigued much quicker due to the hot weather.

3. Hills

Even though a treadmill has an incline setting, it does not match a true hill walk with arms pumping.  Without the machine belt helping to pull you along,  an outside hill is all about leg power. Lean into that hill and get moving.

4. Adaptability

Going outside forces your body into new and uncomfortable routine.  Your brain has to account for new variables and work harder in the same amount of time.

Summer is a great time to challenge yourself. Get out from old rountine and surprise yourself with some great results, and don’t forget your water.

Until next time,

Shelley Healy