Welcome summer! I love this time of year. Summer is such a great time to take advantage of the beautiful weather and the gorgeous outdoors for the next few months. Here in New York, we learn to appreciate the hot weather because we only have it for a short time. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, we try and do as much as we can outdoors, whether it is traveling, camping, going to the beach, working on the garden, or even exercising, we enjoy every minute of it.
Exercising outdoors is a great way to soak in the sun, breathe in some fresh air, enjoy the outdoor scenery and get fit all at once. After all, who doesn’t love feeling fit AND healthy at the same time! If you don’t like to run, there are other things you can do to get that oxygen flowing through your body while shedding a few pounds!
Remember: whatever activity you choose, it is important to stretch before you begin, and drink water throughout.
Here are a few of my favorites:
Take a Hike.
Try hiking with your friends, or your dog! It is a great way to socialize and get your legs looking toned! Don’t like to hike? Go to your local school and walk around the track. Better yet, walk up and down the bleachers for a stronger workout.
Cycle It Out.
If you prefer to sit down and exercise, bike riding is for you! Burn those calories by bike riding three times a week can keep you feeling fit. Throw in some inclines by riding on hills here and there to strengthen your legs muscles quicker.
Get a Little Wet.
If you love the water, go for a swim. It is a great way to stay in shape and get cool. Go to your local pool and swim a few laps three times a week to strengthen your core.
Be a Kid Again.
If you prefer something you can do at home in your own backyard, try jumping rope. It is considered one of the best ways to burn those unwanted calories!
Do What You Need to Do.
Mowing the lawn and other forms of outdoor housework are also considered aerobic exercises.
Paddle Your Heart Out
If you prefer to work on your upper and lower body exercises at the beach, there are many exercises you can do. Paddle boarding and surfing are two of my absolute favorite water exercises to do! Every muscle in your body is being worked on at once. Rowing or kayaking is another great way to enjoy the water while burning some calories.
Throw Your Weight Around
For those that prefer exercising on land, working out in the sand can get rid of fat, burn calories, and keep you in great shape. Push ups, sit ups, lunges, squats, squat jumps, walking lunges, incline push ups, yoga, and other body-weight exercises are all things you can do at the beach, the park, when traveling, or even in your own backyard without equipment. Whichever exercises you choose to do, start by doing three sets of ten or twelve a day, three days a week, alternating upper body exercises with lower body exercises every other day to avoid injury.
Slow It Down.
For those that prefer a “slower” way of staying active, head down to your local golf range and play a few rounds of golf. If golf isn’t your thing, how about playing shuffleboard? Both exercises are perfect for strengthening your upper body and core muscles.
Better Together.
If you prefer an outdoor workout with a group of friends, playing soccer, flag football, roller blading, or even going white water rafting or water skiing will have you staying active and fit, keep you healthy, and put a smile on your face all summer long!
What’s your favorite way to stay fit in the summer? Tell us in the comments below.
