Which is the best gym in Brighton and Hove? As a local PT, this is a question I am often asked. For me, nothing beats getting out in the fresh air and completing a challenging workout on the Brighton seafront when the sun is out; the claustrophobic gym environment does not even come close!
I thought I would use this blog to outline some of the reasons why I think outdoor fitness training, especially in Brighton and Hove where there are so many opportunities, is such a winner.
Outdoor Fitness Benefit 1 – Escape the Indoors
Research suggests that most of us spend 90% of our time indoors which is a pretty alarming. The human body and mind was never designed to spend 90% of its time secluded from the outdoor world..
Outdoor Fitness Benefit 2 – Higher Levels of Post Exercise Endorphins
People who train outdoors experience higher levels of post exercise endorphins. Endorphins are endogenous opioid compounds that are produced in the pituitary gland and hypothalamus during exercise. They act as natural pain-relievers and produce a feeling of wellbeing. The name endorphin derives from the words ‘endogenous’ and ‘morphine’ i.e. a morphine like substance originating from within the body.
Training outdoors has been associated with higher levels of these ‘feel good’ chemicals being produced in the body.
Outdoor Fitness Benefit 3 – Invigorating
The fresh Brighton sea air is refreshing and invigorating. This is due in large to the rich negative ion content of fresh air. Negative ions have been linked to an improved sense of wellbeing, increased alertness, decreased anxiety and a lower resting heart rate.
Outdoor Fitness Benefit 4 – Increase in Vitamin D Levels
Sunlight helps supply the body with Vitamin D, a ‘superstar’ nutrient which helps promote the absorption of calcium, provides strength to bones, reduces systemic inflammation and boosts the immune system. Sadly many of us, particularly in cooler climates fail to get enough sunlight and thus synthesise enough of this great vitamin.
Outdoor Fitness Benefit 5 – Exercise Variety
Outdoor personal training in Brighton allows you to perform exercise routines which are simply not possible in most gyms. This includes multi-directional running to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint.
There are many options to choose from, including Hove Park, Hove Lawns and Preston Park.
There you go, 5 reasons why you should ditch the gym and get outdoors for your fitness sessions. What are you waiting for?
