P.
E & Health Reviewer
Economic Benefits
Nature and Background of Outdoor People who have a relaxed body and
Recreation mind tend to be more productive at
Outdoor recreation is organized activities done work, translating into efficiency at the
during one’s free time for his/her own personal workplace.
reasons, where an interaction between man Ecotourism creates jobs and other
and an element of nature is present. economic activities which can, one way
Reasons People Engage in Outdoor or another, contribute to economic
Recreational Activity growth.
Some do it for personal satisfaction and Spiritual Benefits
enjoyment. Perhaps, it is a time away Positive outdoor experiences can stir up
from the day-to-day routine. spiritual values.
Others do it to be in touch with nature, Being one with nature brings certain
which they rarely have the chance to do, calmness within a person.
especially for those who reside in highly Being one with nature strengthens an
urbanized areas. individual as it heals, rejuvenates, and
Many do it for personal pursuit such as soothes the body and soul.
photography, collecting sea shells, Physical fitness
reaching the top of Mt. Apo, conquering The ability of a person to do daily task with
the rapids of Cagayan River, or attaining alertness and vigor.
a certain fitness level. Leave No Trace Seven Principles
Some individuals or groups do it as part It is a set of universal outdoor ethics that
of outdoor or environmental education, guides one in the activities to do with nature.
such as birdwatching, plant naming, etc. It also provides the framework for making
Whatever reason there may be, people decisions in outdoor recreation.
engage in outdoor recreation for their Principle 1: Plan Ahead and Prepare
own sake and pleasure, voluntarily, and Before going to a place, check if your planned
of their own choice. activity is permitted. Make sure to know the
Benefits of Outdoor Recreation rules, guidelines, and safety procedures they
Physical Benefits have set.
Improve cardiovascular health, build Principle 2: Travel and Camp on Durable
muscle strength, and enhance flexibility Surfaces
To be physically fit Walk, run, bike, or camp on durable surfaces
Psycho-Emotional Benefits like established tracks, rocks, gravel, and dry
Engaging in outdoor recreational grasses.
activities helps people to rest, relax, de- Principle 3: Dispose of Waste Properly
stress or unwind, and feel revitalized. “Pack it in, pack it out” means everything you
Being outdoors also improves self- brought should be brought back with you
esteem, confidence, and creativity. including left-over food or fruit peel. Nothing
Outdoor recreational activities should be left.
contribute to a person’s personal and Principle 4: Leave What You Find
spiritual growth. Examine archeological structures, old walls,
Social Benefits and other heritage artifacts but do not touch
Outdoor activities are ways for families nor leave marks on them.
to become closer through family- Principle 5: Minimize Campfire Impacts
bonding activities. Use lightweight stove for cooking; campfires
Spending time outdoors also allows a can cause lasting impacts.
person to meet and interact with others Principle 6: Respect Wildlife
Outdoor recreation also promotes Observe wild animals from a distance and
stewardship. they should be avoided during sensitive times
Activities done outdoors help in making such as mating, nesting, or raising the young.
people realize the great things that Principle 7: Be Considerate of Other
nature provides mankind with. Visitors
Respect people who live and work in the
countryside.
Respect other visitors and let them have a
momentous experience as well