Surviving the Great (Urban) Outdoors

Most of us would love the opportunity to get out into the country side, far away from the hustle and bustle (and pollution) of the city, but how often can we do that? Certainly not as often as we’d like, but have you considered the detrimental effects of not getting outdoors? It’s been shown that even in urban settings, the presence of green space reduces crime and illness, with people feeling 50% healthier when surrounded by greenery compared to being surrounded by a lack of green space.

So what are you to do? Even the biggest urban centres have green space, or close access to it. Even big-bad Toronto has innumerable ravines that run throughout the city that are used by very few people. Just a short walk, run, or bike ride from just about any point in the city, you can plunge yourself into dense greenery seldom thought to be accessible within city limits.

If you do make the effort to find the green space in your own urban setting, there are a few tips to make your experience more enjoyable:

1. Wear the right clothing: If you are going to be bush-whacking, wear long sleeves and pants to avoid scratches and cuts. If you on more open trail, wear breathable layers that filter out the sunlight.
2. Top it off: even though sun exposure may be reduced under a canopy of trees, hats with a brim can help avoid branches in your eyes, and the possibility of sunburn.
3. Shade your eyes: If you are moving from sunlit sidewalks to shaded trails, either sport lenses that transition or clear lenses that will still protect your eyes from bugs, branches and dirt (especially if you are mountain biking).
4. Protect your tootsies: Stability and traction are much more important on the mixed terrain of trails that might include sand, dirt, mud, roots, and rocks. Water-proof shoes are questionable since they often make your feet sweat more defeating the purpose of keeping your feet dry.
5. Slather on the sunscreen: Regardless of how long you will be out, put on some sunscreen to protect the areas most exposed including your face and ears, arms and legs. 
6. Repel the insects: West Nile and other unpleasant illnesses can sometimes be transmitted by mosquitoes and other bugs, so apply a sunscreen that includes insect repellent or something in addition. Be careful as some repellents can melt synthetic materials.
7. Make it safe: While most outdoor activities are safe, if you are on your own, bring a cell phone and whistle, and avoid using an MP3 player that might prevent you from hearing someone approaching you. If possible, train with other people, which makes it more fun anyway. 
8. Bring the kids: involving the kids serves the purpose of getting you all off your glutes as well as giving you the opportunity to connect with your kids without video games of snipers and exploding body parts.
9. Fuel up: Make sure you’ve eaten and hydrated properly before heading out and take a snack in case you find yourself so enamoured with the outdoors that you lose track of time and need a little energy. 
10. Clean up: Whatever you do, don’t litter. If anything, pack out what you pack in, and even pick up an extra piece wrapper or can if you see one. 

The great (urban) outdoors are closer than you think. Take advantage of the green spaces around you and you will be healthier and happier for having done so.