The Benefits of Outdoor Exercise for Equestrian Athletes

Hey there, did you know that getting outside and enjoying a trail ride may not only be great for your physical health but also your cognitive function? A recent study found that exercising outdoors has greater benefits for our brains than working out indoors. In fact, the study showed that exercising outside resulted in a 50% increase in cognitive function compared to exercising indoors (1). This is great news for equestrian athletes who rely on their working memory to remember and execute complex riding patterns.

But the benefits of outdoor exercise don't stop at cognitive function. Another study found that exercising outside can also improve our mood and reduce stress levels. In fact, the study showed that just 20 minutes of outdoor exercise can reduce cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress, by an average of 16% (2). This is especially important for equestrian athletes who may feel pressure to perform at their best during competitions or may experience stress from the demands of training and caring for their horses.

In addition to the mental and emotional benefits, outdoor exercise can also provide physical benefits. For example, exposure to sunlight can help our bodies produce vitamin D, which is important for bone health and immune function. In fact, just 15-20 minutes of sun exposure can produce 10,000-20,000 IU of vitamin D, which is more than the recommended daily intake (3). Additionally, outdoor exercise can provide a more challenging workout due to uneven terrain and changing weather conditions.

So, how can you take your workout outside as an equestrian athlete? One option is to incorporate outdoor workouts into your training routine. This can include running or hiking on nearby trails or doing bodyweight exercises in a park or open field. Additionally, you may want to consider taking your horse on a trail ride or hacking out in an open field. This can provide both you and your horse with a change of scenery and a chance to enjoy the outdoors while still getting in some exercise.

If you do choose to take your workout outside, it's important to take some safety precautions. This can include wearing appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather and terrain, bringing water and snacks, and letting someone know where you'll be and when you plan to return.

In summary, taking your workout outside as an equestrian athlete can provide a variety of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. From improving cognitive function by 50% and reducing cortisol levels by 16% to challenging your body with uneven terrain and changing weather conditions, there are plenty of reasons to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.

Happy riding!

Sarah

If you're ready to take your mental and physical health to the next level, don't forget to check out our website for fitness programs and coaching that are specifically tailored to equestrian athletes. We offer a variety of options to help you achieve your fitness goals and improve your overall well-being. Visit our website to learn more and get started today!