Spring Into Action With Outdoor Exercise
MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release - 12 November 2015
FROM: The New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs)
We’ve made it through winter, and while the spring weather hasn’t been playing nice, all the time we can be safe in the
knowledge that summer is just around the corner. What better way to celebrate the sunshine, the warmth and the longer
days than by getting outdoors.
While the quintessential kiwi summer involves as much relaxing, as activity, many people are keen to maintain or improve
their exercise levels and fitness over the summer months.
A winning combination? Combining the great outdoors with exercise and trying one of the many options available for
activity. Research over the last few years has shown that exercising outdoors contributes to preventing boredom, and
maintaining motivation, and has a ‘feel good’ aspect to it, with participants enjoying nature while getting that
endorphin kick.
The easiest way to get moving is to don a pair of comfy shoes and head to the hill. It’s free, within reach of even city
dwellers, and doesn’t require skill or experience (depending on your choice of track). Its important to remember when
heading out that you start off easy to make sure you are warmed up, and pack items such as a jacket, water and healthy
snacks to keep you going for longer walks. Many local and regional councils have a section on their websites with local
walking and hiking routes so head there is you need inspiration in your area.
For those who like more structured exercise options, there is no shortage of programmed choices through local REPs
Registered Exercise Professionals and facilities.
Small Group Training
Often referred to as ‘boot camps’, small group training in the outdoors has a number of benefits. While some will be
high intensity with a military style feel, many more are targeted at those newer to exercise or who prefer a more
relaxed workout
It is important to make sure your session is operated by someone with the right education, has plenty of experience, and
who is able to offer you encouragement during and between sessions. By choosing a small group training session offered
by a Registered Exercise Professional, you can be assured your trainer knows their stuff. Some thing to consider:
• If you are new choose a programme that has ten or less people in it to ensure your trainer can give you the
support you need.
• Talk to the trainer prior to signing up to make sure their training style is the right fit for you.
Sports
Whether you like a casual game and get together, or being part of a more competitive team, there are plenty of options
for those who like to combine their exercise with sport.
If you are playing irregularly you will need to make sure you engage in other physical activity to keep up your fitness,
to get you game ready and to prevent injury. Many teams have a local gym or exercise facility that they head to for off
field work. If your team wants more tailored training, you will be able to hire a trainer to develop a customised
session. Divided between players, it can be a cost effective solution and a fantastic way to build a team spirit.
For those with a gym membership who want to enjoy the great outdoors, but keep their membership, check in with your club
or trainer. While in the past trainers and classes were always held within the walls of the gym or exercise facility,
these days one of those group exercise classes you see in a park are just as likely to be run by an exercise facility.
The outdoors and exercise are a great summer combination, so get out there and get active.