Working out: take your wellness goals outside
In Bermuda, wellness doesn’t need a studio or a schedule. It’s already built into the landscape. The ocean is never far, the air shifts with the day and movement feels less like a task and more like something you fall into. Especially this time of year, when the humidity hasn’t set in, the evenings stretch longer and being outside feels easy again.
But outdoor wellness here isn’t just about running or workouts. We spoke with Ezekiel Stoneham, founder of Grateful Miles Run Club, who believes wellness isn’t just physical activity.
1, What does outdoor wellness look like in Bermuda right now? This is a bit tricky because outdoor wellness can mean any and everything to be honest. Wellness isn't just physical activity — it can be meditation, it can be enjoying the sunset, it can be a walk, run, sailing. Whatever centres you should assist with your wellness.
2, Why do you think people are leaning more into outdoor movement this time of year? This time of the year being spring? If so — lack of humidity, lack of heat, preparation for Bermuda Day [Half Marathon] Derby, longer evenings. It's perfect really.
3, What makes running (or movement) in Bermuda different from anywhere else? On a more positive note, with the island only being one mile from shore to shore, you're always guaranteed to see the ocean, which is a major boost for me personally; something about the ocean brings tranquility. On a more negative note, the roads are tight, drivers are a little unforgiving. Outside of the railway trails there are no real safe running routes.
4, How has Grateful Miles changed the way people approach fitness or community? I think we can all agree that any physical activity has its difficult periods, but I think what Grateful Miles has shown the island is that we can do difficult things together. And once we finish those difficult things, we can still lead a balanced and healthy lifestyle, but the difficult things cannot be avoided. It has instilled discipline and consistency among a host of varying demographics and ages.
5, For someone who wants to start but feels intimidated, what’s the easiest way in? Start! Don't wait for your friends or the beginning of the month or when you get new shoes. Just show up. There will be somebody there who is new, just like you. There will be someone there who is at a similar speed, and if not we have an amazing team and community who are willing to assist.
6, If you had to describe the ideal “wellness day” in Bermuda, what does it look like from start to finish? Wellness morning! Grateful Miles run at a beach location with a BBQ and cooler. New runners who are not afraid to make new friends. We've put this to the test over the last two summers and it truly is one of my favourite Sunday morning rituals.
7, Where are your go-to routes or spots? Well, I was raised in Southampton, so my go-to routes are mostly through beach trails or railway trails. While you need to pay attention when running a bit more, the views can't be beaten. Honourable mention to Daniels Head.
