Gardening is a great form of exercise and works all of the major muscle groups, including legs, buttocks, arms, back, shoulders, and stomach. It's considered moderate (and sometimes strenuous) physical activity, and you can count gardening as part of your 30 minutes of physical activity each day. Gardening can burn plenty of calories and also may ease stress.
You'll Dig Gardening's Health Benefits
Possible health benefits from 30 minutes of moderate gardening include:
- Decreased blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Lower blood sugar levels
- Reduced heart disease risk
- Increased flexibility and muscular strength
New to Gardening As a Physical Activity?
- Always check with your physician before you begin any new form of physical activity.
- Try not to make your first time out this season a marathon event.
- Balance strenuous activities such as digging or mulching with moderate activities such as weeding or planting.
Maximize Your Gardening Muscles
- Consider the muscle-building resistance of using a push mower instead of a riding mower.
- To prevent muscle soreness, warm up by stretching for 5 to 10 minutes, and stretch again after you're done gardening.
- Alternate your stance and motion as often as possible. Doing this balances the muscles you use.
- Use long-handled tools when raking or hoeing; sit or kneel when using hand tools.
Whether you're a veteran gardener or have a budding interest, consider the satisfaction of a flourishing yard and a fitter you as you spend time tending a garden.
Calories Burned With Gardening*
Mowing lawn (push mower): 243
General gardening: 202
Weeding: 182
Trimming shrubs (manual): 182
Trimming shrubs (power): 142
Planting seeds/seedlings: 162
Mowing lawn (riding): 101
Watering lawn or garden: 61
*In 30 minutes by a 180-lb person