To maintain a level of health no matter your age or fitness level, being active for at least 30 minutes each day is a must. Getting the blood pumping doesn’t only help that waistline stay at a comfortable size; it also improves mental capacity and reduces stress along the way. Checking the box of daily exercise during the cooler months isn’t easy for most, though, because running on a treadmill or hitting the weights at the gym can seem repetitive and stuffy.
Fortunately, summer is upon us, and there is no better time to kickstart a new workout routine than now. The daylight hours are longer throughout the summer months, and the sunshine and heat work as nature’s motivators to get active outside the confines of your home or neighborhood gym. If you’re new to working out or simply looking to refresh an exercise routine, here are a few easy-to-embrace summertime exercise tips to get you outside and healthily enjoying the sun.
Move the Routine Outside
The easiest way to incorporate the beautiful weather of the summer is to move your usual workout routine outdoors. Whether that’s running or jogging, lifting weights, or yoga, find a space under the sun that fits your exercise needs. Some may find that’s as simple as moving to a deck or backyard, while others may need to do a little searching for a park or outdoor recreation space to burn calories or build muscle. Regardless of where the outdoors takes your workout, makes sure it is a location in which you feel comfortable.
Get a Partner in Crime
Having an accountability partner can be incredibly beneficial in sticking with a new or altered exercise routine. Find a friend, family member or colleague who is interested in getting outside and boosting their overall fitness this summer, and create a schedule of outdoor workouts that you can both stick with. If motivation is an issue, consider working with a professional trainer or sign up for a summer boot camp that’s set outside to increase accountability and commitment to the process.
Search for New Outdoor Activities
The number of exercise classes held outdoors drastically increases when the weather shifts toward warmer temperatures, which makes it easy to find a new workout routine during the summer. Many fitness trainers hold boot camps – intensive training sessions focused on cardio and strength building as a group or individual instruction. Similarly, hiking trails, kayaking, and water sports become more available to the masses throughout the summer months. If you’re looking for a change to your routine that includes the outdoors, a quick search online should return countless options that fit your activity level and budget.
Prepare for the Heat/Sun
No matter how you take advantage of the sunshine this summer, it is crucial to prepare your body for the more extreme temperatures you’ll face exercising outside. First, stay hydrated with cool water before, during, and after every workout, and take care to apply adequate sunscreen to stave off burns and overexposure to UV rays. It is also helpful to eat well before and after exercising and be sure to warm up and stretch before any workout routine. Remember, if an exercise is new to you, take your time getting into the swing of things and don’t push your body too far too quickly. An injury to your knees, back, or joints could keep you away from workouts indoors or out for an extended period of time.
Having the opportunity to get your daily physical activity done outdoors is one of the best parts of summer for active adults, and considering these tips will ensure you get the most out of your workouts each summer day.