Did you know there's a way to be active while also helping out the environment? Plogging is not only good for the planet, but it has many physical and mental health benefits.
image via Matador Network
What is plogging?
Plogging is a new Swedish word combining the verbs plocka upp (pick up) and jogga (jog). When someone is plogging, it means that they’re participating in jogging or other outdoor sports while picking up litter.
Invented by Erik Ahlström in 2016, this activity is now a global phenomenon, thanks to social media. On any given day, there’s an estimated 20,000 people in over 100 countries participating in plogging.
image via Apartment Therapy
What are the benefits of plogging?
There are many benefits to plogging. Not only is it a fun way to stay active, it helps the environment by cleaning up the areas around you.
Here are some of the health benefits of plogging:
- Weight loss
- Improves lung capacity and digestion
- Reduces the risk of heart problems
- Increases bone density and reduces the risk or arthritis and osteoporosis
- Improves oxygen intake
- Raises self-esteem and confidence
image via Celebration of Our Mountains
How to start plogging
Plogging can be done solo or in groups. Here are some ways to incorporate plogging into your daily life or even during hangouts with friends:
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Find a group or create a group of friends to go plogging with. Since plogging doesn’t have to include jogging, it can be as simple as taking a long stroll with a friend while collecting litter.
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Combine it with other exercises. When picking up trash, try squatting or balancing on one leg. You could also do lunges in between running or walking or include short sprints.
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Make it a competition. If you can gather a larger group of friends, create teams and compete to see who can pick up the most litter. Afterwards, you can combine all the bags and take it to a local recycling center.
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Share it on social media. This is a case where showing off is a good thing! Sharing your sessions on social media may inspire others to also take part in the movement.
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Try it with other sports. Plogging goes beyond going on a run or a walk – try plogging when you’re doing other sports, such as cycling, rowing, or even playing basketball in the park.
Have you tried plogging before? Let us know what you think of it in the comments and share our article to inspire others!
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