Fun in the Sun: Summer Activities to Stay Fit

May 25, 2023

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Ready to bring some summer vibes to your workout routine? When the sun is shining and the weather is warm, it’s the perfect time to embrace outdoor activities that not only bring joy but also count as your workout. Yes, you read that right – I’m telling you to skip the workout (GASP!!) in favor of these summer activities that can get you moving. Because remember my motto: if you’re moving, it counts!

First up, paddleboarding. This one comes as a personal recommendation after receiving an inflatable paddleboard from my boyfriend. Picture this: gliding across the water, feeling the gentle breeze on your skin, and engaging your core muscles to maintain balance. Paddleboarding is not only a fun way to explore the water, but it also provides an excellent workout for your entire body. So grab a board and paddle away!

Next, let’s talk about swimming. Whether you’re at the beach, the pool, or even a local lake, swimming is a fantastic full-body workout. The water offers resistance, making your muscles work harder, and the best part is, it’s incredibly refreshing. Even simply walking and moving around (versus traditional swimming laps) provides the added resistance – water aerobics are a thing for a reason!

Hiking is another activity that perfectly combines the joy of nature with a great workout. Lace up your hiking boots, find a scenic trail, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors. As you trek up those hills and navigate rocky paths, your legs, core, and cardiovascular system will thank you. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy breathtaking views along the way.

Let’s not forget about cycling. Whether it’s a leisurely bike ride along the beach or an adventurous mountain biking expedition, cycling is a fantastic way to get your heart pumping and your legs moving. It’s low-impact, which means it’s gentle on your joints, and it allows you to explore your surroundings with a smile on your face.

And hey, if team sports are more your thing, gather some friends for a game of beach volleyball! Jumping, diving, and spiking that ball engages your entire body while having a blast with your buddies. If your volleyball skills aren’t quite what you remembered, it doesn’t even matter because you’re still out there moving and it still counts – it’s a workout that doesn’t even feel like a workout!

Of course, there are countless other activities that can count as your workout during the summer. Maybe it’s rowing around a lake in a canoe, playing frisbee, dancing at an outdoor music festival, or even gardening. The key is to embrace the active moments that come naturally during this time of year and remind yourself that every bit of movement counts.

Remember, the whole purpose of working out is to keep our bodies active and healthy, especially in our sedentary modern lives. But during the summer when you’re naturally more active, you don’t have to stress about getting in a formal workout every single day. If you’re moving, having fun, and engaging your muscles, that’s what matters most. If you’re moving, it counts! (has that sunk in yet?!)

So, my friend, let the summer season inspire you to try new activities, get outdoors, and enjoy the natural movement that comes with the warm weather. Remember, fitness is not just about the gym or the traditional workout routine – as much as I love them. It’s about embracing an active lifestyle that brings joy and keeps you feeling your best. Make this summer a season of movement, adventure, and lots of smiles.