Health benefits from exercise in unspoiled nature. This is due to the wonderfully clear air, the wonderful scents, and colors of the trees and plants, and of course the heavenly peace that brings body and soul into harmony.
The healing power of the forest
In autumn, in particular, we can also benefit from some healthy microorganisms that are absorbed by the skin and mucous membranes through the air.
One of these organisms is a bacterium called Bacillus subtilis. This bacterium is created when the leaves decompose. When the leaves are swirled up with their feet, the bacterium floats up to 2 m above the ground and enters the human body through breathing.
Bacillus subtilis is not only harmless but also a very useful bacterium for humans. It forms the antibiotic bacitracin, which was first described in 1945. The antibiotic effect of this substance is based on the inhibition of the cell wall synthesis of other bacteria so that they die. This property also makes Bacillus subtilis a good alternative to synthetic pesticides.
How healthy is the gym?
There are many people who prefer working out in the gym to exercising in the fresh air. Some feel particularly attracted to the different devices with all their training options, for others, it is important to train among like-minded people, to be able to control the training process in the mirror, and to have a little chat at the drinks bar in between. These possibilities are of course not given in the forest run.
Ultimately, everyone should train where they feel most comfortable. Nevertheless, there are a few things to consider when training in the gym due to the variety of equipment and the weights used:
- An experienced trainer should always be available to assist the user of the equipment. Without expert guidance on how to optimally adjust the equipment and posture, application errors can occur that have serious negative effects on the health of the practitioner.
- The studio should be well ventilated. An insufficient supply of fresh air can result in an insufficient supply of oxygen. This means that the combustion of the metabolic waste products cannot proceed optimally or, under certain circumstances, can even be completely prevented. If the air in the training room becomes very thin, breathing automatically takes place faster and the heart rate increases rapidly, which in the worst case can lead to hyperventilation.
- The hygiene regulations must be consistently adhered to everywhere, especially in the sauna and wet area, because this is where bacteria can spread unhindered. Therefore, never take a shower without bathing shoes! The danger posed by possible contamination of the air conditioning systems should also be considered.
- There should be no carpets because they are an optimal nesting place for pathogenic viruses, bacteria, and mites.
- The group offers must in any case be led by trained specialists, otherwise serious damage to health, especially for untrained and/or sick people, could result.
- The often overly loud exposure to music to improve performance can lead to hearing damage or nerve irritation.
Pure oxygen from nature
The healthiest exercise is certainly in fresh, as little polluted air as possible, as can be found in the forest, in the mountains or by the sea. Correct breathing ensures an optimal supply of oxygen.
Nordic walking for all ages
Walking or Nordic walking, in which the knees are protected by the use of poles and the arms are trained at the same time, are suitable for people of all ages. Hiking, cycling, or swimming are also very good endurance sports.
Dance again
Dancing is also an ideal sport because all muscles get moving and the whole thing is a lot of fun with good music and good company.
If you want to take it easy, slow-motion sequences like yoga, tai chi, chi gong, or movement meditation are very well advised.