Women can experience many benefits if they put on their gym clothing and head outside to exercise, according to a fitness expert.

Anne Crook, a qualified exercise instructor, set up Fit Women - an outdoor fitness club - a year ago and now holds two classes a week in Didsbury Park, Mancheter.

She explained to the Manchester Evening News that exercising in the open provides exposure to sunlight - which is essential for the body to produce vitamin D.

Back in March, research from the University of Copenhagen and Bispebjerg Hospital in Denmark revealed that vitamin D plays a key role in boosting the immune system.

However, Ms Crook said that increased vitamin D levels is not the only benefit of keeping fit outside.

"Exercising in fresh air is proven to lift the spirits … and, if it's accessible and cheap, then all the better," she added.

As Ms Crook set up Fit Women at the height of the recession, she said she was aware that she had to be mindful of expense.

Women who take part in the exercise classes do not have to sign up to a money-draining contract, they can just book each session in advance and pay as and when they attend.

Posted by Tina Wilson ADNFCR-2569-ID-19843406-ADNFCR

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