Why Outdoor Training is the Best Stress Reliever You’re Not Using
Life can be a lot. Work deadlines, bills, traffic, emails you forgot to reply to (again)—it all stacks up. And when stress hits, most people turn to the usual coping mechanisms: doom-scrolling, stress-eating, or binge-watching a show they don’t even like that much.
But here’s the thing—you already have the best stress reliever at your fingertips. It’s not another app, not a self-help book, and definitely not a bottle of wine (sorry). It’s outdoor training.
That’s right—moving your body outside is one of the fastest, most effective ways to hit the reset button on stress. And before you roll your eyes and think, “Oh great, another ‘exercise fixes everything’ speech,” hear me out. Because this isn’t just about breaking a sweat—it’s about using nature as your personal therapist.
Let’s break it down.
1. Fresh Air = Instant Mood Booster
Ever noticed how a deep breath outside feels 100x better than one inside a gym? That’s because fresh air reduces cortisol (your body’s stress hormone) and increases oxygen flow to your brain—helping you think clearer and feel calmer.
Why it works:
More oxygen = better brain function
Sunlight exposure = boosts serotonin (your happy hormone)
Natural surroundings = lowers blood pressure and heart rate
Try this: Next time you're feeling overwhelmed, step outside and take five deep breaths. Then go for a brisk walk or do some bodyweight exercises. Bet you’ll feel better almost instantly.
2. You’re Moving, Not Overthinking
Stress is sneaky. It traps you in your own head, replaying the same problems on a loop. The fastest way to shut it up? Move your body.
Why it works:
Physical activity reduces mental fatigue and clears brain fog
Exercise triggers endorphins (your natural stress relievers)
Movement shifts focus away from stress and onto something productive
Try this: Feeling anxious? Go outside and do:
10 push-ups
10 squats
10 burpees (if you’re feeling brave)
Repeat 3 times. I promise you won’t have the mental space to stress about anything else.
3. Nature = Your Free, No-Appointment-Needed Therapist
Gyms are great, but they don’t come with trees, open skies, and birds chirping (unless you’re training at The Outdoor Squad, of course 😉).
Why it works:
Studies show just 20 minutes in nature can significantly reduce stress levels
Green spaces lower anxiety and improve mood
Training outside engages your senses (sight, sound, smell), grounding you in the present moment
Try this: Next time you work out outdoors, leave the headphones at home. Listen to the wind, birds, and your own breath. It’s basically meditation—but way more fun.
4. You Train Harder Without Even Realising It
Ever notice how outdoor workouts feel less like a chore and more like an adventure? That’s because outdoor training challenges you in ways a gym never can—without the boredom of staring at a wall while you do it.
Why it works:
Uneven terrain engages more stabilizer muscles
Hills, wind, and natural resistance make workouts more dynamic
Distractions (like scenery and fresh air) make you forget you’re even “working out”
Try this: Swap one of your gym workouts for an outdoor session. Do some hill sprints, kettlebell swings, or a bodyweight circuit. Bet you’ll feel more energised and way less stressed afterward.
5. The Social Factor = Built-In Stress Relief
Stress thrives in isolation. The more you keep it bottled up, the worse it gets. One of the best things about training outdoors? You’re never really alone—whether it’s a community boot camp, a running group, or just a random dog that decides to be your workout buddy.
Why it works:
Being around others helps reduce stress and improve mood
Friendly competition pushes you to go harder (without feeling pressured)
Laughing and chatting during a workout makes it way more enjoyable
Try this: Join a group training session (cough like The Outdoor Squad cough). The combo of fresh air, movement, and community support will leave you feeling like a brand-new person.
6. Better Sleep = Less Stress
Stress and bad sleep go hand in hand. When you’re constantly wired, falling asleep (and staying asleep) feels impossible. The fix? Outdoor exercise.
Why it works:
Daylight exposure helps regulate your body’s sleep cycle
Physical activity burns off excess energy and tension
Lower stress levels mean fewer racing thoughts at bedtime
Try this: Do a morning outdoor workout to reset your body clock, or train in the evening to release built-up tension before bed. Either way, you’ll sleep better—and stress less.
Final Thought: Time to Get Outside & Destress
If you’re stressed, tired, or just feeling off, don’t reach for another coffee or scroll TikTok for an hour hoping to feel better. Instead, step outside and move your body.
The best stress relief doesn’t come from a pill, a screen, or a fancy wellness retreat. It comes from fresh air, movement, and a little bit of sweat.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there, train hard, and let nature do the rest.
See you outside.
