With a new year comes a new will to exercise. But do you know the best way to exercise and reduce carbon consumption in the fitness industry? And yes, working out can increase your carbon footprint in ways you may not be aware of. Certain gym products and equipment may harm and prevent a greener future.
While it is essential to improve your health and well-being by getting fit, there’s no harm in trying to help the environment become just a little healthier than well. There are several ways to go about it; here are some of the few.
Try More Workouts Outside the Gym
As probably one of the most straightforward sustainability strategies, working out outside the gym is a great way to exercise in a greener manner. But how does this help? In gyms, exercise equipment uses a significant amount of electricity. And to generate this electricity, the energy comes from non-renewable sources such as fossil fuels. Therefore, it may seem difficult at first to reorient yourself with new exercise habits. After all, even simply getting yourself to start a fitness journey seems hard enough already. Still, there are many enjoyable and rejuvenating exercises you can try outdoors.
Go for a run.
A typical workout that does not require any electricity or gym equipment is running. You could even say it’s a much livelier alternative to the treadmill. Just imagine—you get to breathe fresh air, pass by picturesque landmarks and buildings, and perhaps even cross paths with unique people. But, of course, you still need to keep in mind your safety. Make sure that you run in a space that doesn’t impede traffic or anything that may be dangerous. Be sure always to remain aware of your running routine and your surroundings.
Practice outdoor yoga.
You can always pick up outdoor yoga if you’re not the running type. You can head towards a park and find the time to take on some downtime and relaxation. And if you’re the kind who prefers to work out in a group, outdoor yoga leaves space for group sessions. Pop in your headphones, play spa music—or whatever you like to relax—and take a deep breath. You may need to purchase a good yoga mat before trying anything out, as it would help with your footing in any yoga positions you want to try. It’s still an excellent option for those trying to decrease their carbon consumption.
Go hiking.
Hiking is also another way to get fit without hurting the environment for the adventurers out there. It might even help you connect with nature. There are a variety of hiking spots you can search for. You may try them out by yourself or with a group that enjoys the thrill of the outdoors. It’s important to note that if you’re the type that litters as you hike, it may not help make the earth greener. On the other hand, hiking allows you to be closer to nature, so you must always observe proper etiquette when embarking on the journey.
Watch your shower time.
After a good workout, showering is the way to go. However, taking too much time would mean wasting a massive amount of water. And since conserving resources is a considerable part of lessening carbon consumption, taking shorter showers would help a lot. Time may not be the most vital idea to remember while standing in the shower, and it may take some time before you get used to showering faster. Still, taking up less shower time is a habit you can form once you do it repeatedly, so it isn’t entirely impossible.
Use Reusable Gym Products.
Reusable gym products are also a great way to lessen your carbon footprint. Bring your reusable water bottle to keep buying drinks from the nearby gym vending machine. You could also try not to buy excessive workout clothes or gear as it could otherwise be a waste. Try to think about the gym products and gear you purchase and ensure that they are items you plan to use—and reuse—regularly.
Walk to the Gym.
Instead of using your car or commuting to the gym, simply walking there can make a vast difference. The carbon emissions from vehicles would then be reduced, and you would also use a lot less fuel—which would otherwise harm the environment. Walking would also allow you to exercise before you hit the gym. You could even think of it as a warm-up of sorts.
The Final Word on Carbon Consumption in the Fitness Industry
Taking care of our bodies is one of our most important things. But a part of that process should be to take care of where we live. Earth is home to all of us and millions of other life forms.
Thus, taking care of the earth is another step toward improving our fitness. In addition, we need clean water, fresh air, and healthy food to eat. Thus reducing carbon consumption goes a long way toward improving our health and fitness. What is your opinion on carbon consumption in the fitness industry? Please share your response in the comment section below.
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