As the weather warms up, new opportunities for outdoor exercise present themselves. Take advantage of the sunshine, and get outside. Here are a list of fun things you can do to work up a sweat this summer.
Hiking
Hiking is an enjoyable way to work out. You get to experience the beauty of nature, fresh air, and the serenity of the mountains. You will move your body in ways you don’t normally do as you head up the mountain. If you don’t live near many mountains, try looking up fun trails close by. Make a day trip out of it if you want. Because you will be alone with whomever you hike with, take to opportunity to indulge in some quality conversation. If you decide you want to hike by yourself, listen to an audiobook, your favorite music, or simply enjoy the sounds of the trail.
Swimming/Water Sports
Swimming on a hot day is exhilarating. It also happens to be a great workout. You can take a dip in a pool, lake, or ocean. Each body of water offers its own form of exercise. You can swim laps, or play a game of water polo, volleyball, or any other sport you can incorporate into your pool time. You can kayak and wakeboard in a lake (provided you have a boat), and you can surf or boogie board in the ocean. The current provides excellent resistance for swimming as well. There are so many ways you can work out in water.
Rock Climbing
As with any form of exercise, rock climbing is an excellent stress reliever. There are so many benefits which include increased flexibility, muscle strengthening and coordination. Pulling your body weight up a wall is no easy task. It requires a lot of help from your arm and leg muscles. In addition, the satisfaction you will feel when you reach the top of whatever you’re climbing is highly rewarding.
Horseback Riding
If you aren’t sure if horseback riding will give you a great workout, you should give it a try! Not only will it strengthen your muscles, it helps improve balance and coordination as well. Staying upright on a horse requires constant use of your leg and core muscles. In addition to the physical benefits, there are also emotional and mental advantages to being around horses. Try something outside of your average workout and give horseback riding a go.
Biking
Take your bike out on the road or into the mountains for a ride. Your legs will be on fire, but the view and the exhilaration are completely worth it. Biking helps with flexibility, joint mobility, coordination, posture and can even help with the prevention and management of disease like cancer or strokes. Grab your bike, get out and enjoy some fresh air.
Summer is a great time to experiment with new types of exercise. Constantly repeating the same workouts is the fastest way to lose motivation. Stay active with these fun activities.
