3 eco-friendly ways to exercise
Updated: Jul. 16, 2019
Improve your health while also reducing your carbon footprint. Here are three great ways to exercise, plus our eco-friendly product picks
1. Walking
Walking, many experts will say is one of the best, if not the best way to get a little physical activity. Experts recommend the average adult aim for 10,000 steps each day. To help achieve that, consider purchasing a pedometer to keep track. Fitness expert and author of The Think Factor, Brent Bishop says, “a regular walking program helps lower your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.”
According to Bishop, a daily walking regimen is a great way to exercise without putting a strain on the knees and joints. By leaving home each day a little earlier and walking to work, rather than driving, you’ll not be on your way to achieving a healthier lifestyle, but you’ll also be doing Mother Earth a much-needed favour. Commit to walking to your destination at least one day a week if you can and feel better about your shrinking carbon footprint. Just remember to stay hydrated!
Eco Tip: Forgo plastic and instead bring a reusable water bottle with you on long walks. Try Kleen Kanteen’s 18 oz Classic Stainless Steel Water Bottle, $17 (free of BPA and other toxins).
2. Running
Running is an exercise that, like walking, can be done anywhere will little to no equipment needed. “Running burns more calories in less time than almost any other continuous exercise, due to the impact based nature of the activity,” says Bishop.
To make running a real environmentally savvy exercise, why not wear eco-friendly running shoes? Bishop suggests trying an eco-friendly barefoot running shoe, which he says “helps promote a natural running stride.”
Eco Tip: Try the Vibram FiveFinger Classic shoe, $75.
3. Yoga
A regular yoga practice will help improve your flexibility and core strength, in addition to enhancing your overall body awareness. Yoga will also introduce you to mediation-the act of focusing your mind. Move your daily yoga session outdoors and benefit from the calming effects of nature as well.
Eco Tip: Opt for a biodegradable yoga mat such as Gaiam’s Sol Suddha Eco Yoga Mat, $40. Made from TPE, a material that is 100 percent recyclable and biodegradable, the Sol Suddha Eco Yoga Mat is also professional quality at a reasonable price.
Related:
• Is it worth it to buy eco-friendly workout wear?
• Quiz: What’s your organic foods IQ?
• How nature can make you healthier
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