If you’ve spent the entire winter working out in the gym, and you’re thinking about switching things up a bit with some outdoor training, here’s what you should know. Every location offers a lot of benefits, but they both have some downsides to them, as well. So, we’ll present you with pros and cons of both the gym and the outdoor training, and it’s up to you to decide which one is more suitable for you.
Gym training pros
If you live in an urban area full of air pollution such as New York, London or Sydney, staying in the gym might be a healthier option. Pollution can cause all sorts of problems such as asthma or allergies. Also, if you’re allergic to pollen or ambrosia, it is definitely best for you to stay in the gym.
Since you have to pay for the gym, money can be a hell of a motivation to go and do your workout. Also, if you need company while working out, there are a lot of people in the gym who can double as your silent workout partners. Gyms usually offer a lot of group workouts led by an instructor. This way, your workout will be safe and effective; your instructor will make sure of that. You will not be able to skip those planks or burpees without feeling embarrassed. Also, there are many different types of group training, so you can try them all out, until you find your perfect fit.
In the gym, you can quickly switch from one machine to another which gives your workout more flexibility. If you get easily bored running on the treadmill, you can go ride a bike or jump on the elliptical, and all that during a single workout session. Further, if you want to build some serious muscles and mass, gym is the heaven full of weightlifting equipment.
Another advantage of the gym is the fact that the temperature inside is constant, so once you find the perfect fitness clothes, you can just rock them to your gym every day. Also, most of the gyms have air-conditioning so you’re not in the risk of overheating. Plus, just think about those steamy showers, saunas, pools and spas that will turn your workout into a mini holiday.
Gym training cons
Many people who work out outside say that gyms lack an interesting background, fresh air and breeze. Gyms can sometimes be stuffy and overcrowded, so you will actually have to wait your turn. Also, don’t forget the price tag! You have to pay for all those commodities and sometimes that price is spicy, while outdoor training is literally free.
Outdoor training pros
According to studies, outdoor exercise has a lot of benefits for both the body and mind. After an outdoor training, people report feeling revitalized, less angry and full of energy. Outdoors can greatly affect your enthusiasm, stress and anxiety levels.
One of the other perks of outside training is vitamin D, since we get it from the sun. Vitamin D makes our bones stronger and it improves our immune system. However, stay safe, and always wear sun protection and cover up. Outdoors is great for running, walking, swimming, surfing, skating, cycling and climbing. Many runners or cyclists prefer outdoors because of the scenery and a variety of terrains.
If you’re short on money, then choose the outdoors. Most of the exercises are completely free and they provide workouts for many different muscle groups. Surf for your core and legs, swim and rock climb for upper body strength and run for ultimate cardio.
Outdoor training cons
If you choose to exercise outside, be prepared for changing seasons and extreme temperatures. Are you willing to run outside in 0 degrees Celsius and risk an injury by running on ice? Do you like swimming outside? You can forget about that during winter, unless you live in a place such as Australia or California and even then, you’ll need a wetsuit. Also, chances are that sometimes you won’t be able to work out during the day, so the night will be your only option. Is your neighbourhood safe enough to run in the dark?
There you have it, the ultimate gym vs. outdoor training list. The best thing you can do is choose the best of both worlds. Mix up indoor and outdoor workouts for the ultimate results.
Luke Douglas is a fitness and health blogger at Ripped.me, and a great fan of the gym and a healthy diet. He follows all the trends in fitness, gym and healthy living, and loves to share his knowledge in this field through useful and informative articles.
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