Exercise in fresh air is healthy and is nothing new. The renowned sports doctor Dr. Müller-Wohlfahrt recently referred to “sitting” as a form of illness. Half of Germans move too little and that has fatal consequences, especially for children and the elderly. He’s right about that, because exercise strengthens muscles, tendons and joints, promotes blood circulation and thus brings nutrients and oxygen to the brain and organs.
Exercise in childhood protects in old age
When children move a lot outdoors from an early age, the brain and nervous system are coordinated with the musculoskeletal system. Many movements become automatic and the body learns to react unconsciously. For example, if you trip over something, your muscles, tendons, and joints react by themselves, so you don’t fall as easily. Therefore, children should run, jump and hop around outdoors as much as possible so that they can develop a secure body awareness. People who have played sports all their lives still have significantly better mobility and responsiveness in old age.
Exercise — good vision — good balance
Good mobility gives the body a good balance. Vision is also important, especially peripheral vision. The eyes are constantly scanning the peripheral field without being aware of it. Obstacles, bumps and dangers are recognized unconsciously and the musculoskeletal system can react so that we don’t fall. If a danger is recognized, the brain sends the signal “look” and automatically we turn our heads in appropriate direction.
Good circulation for good vision and hearing
Outdoor activity improves the blood flow to the brain and sensory organs. This has a positive effect on vision and hearing. Three-dimensional hearing is also important to recognize dangers. We hear exactly from which direction and distance a car is coming, but also to our delight where the bird is sitting that is singing so beautifully. However, it is counterproductive if you look at the smartphone and pay attention with ear-buds in your ear.
Good mobility gives more security
You don’t necessarily need a gym to maintain mobility and quick reactions into old age. Regular moderate outdoor activity such as walking, running, cycling, and swimming promotes the coordination of muscles, eyes and joints and thus balance. Ball sports are particularly good for training mobility, responsiveness, peripheral vision, central vision, and maintain social contacts. Golf is a popular sport where you can exercise moderately and train peripheral and central vision.
To quote Albert Einstein once again:
“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you have to move”.