Best Ways to Stay Active This Summer

Summer is here and it’s the perfect time of year to get outdoors and have some fun. The sun is warm and the days are longer, but you don’t want to make the mistake of simply laying around the pool or on the beach. If you’re trying to lose weight or simply trying to improve your fitness, moving more is important and summer is the perfect time to do it. Here are some of the best things you can do to make sure you stay active this summer to reach your fitness goals.

Start Tracking Your Steps

Staying active to maintain or lose weight this summer isn’t just about building in 30 minutes of exercise every day – it’s also about finding small ways to be active throughout your day. Whether it’s taking the stairs, walking around your office during lunch, or parking further from the store, find ways to move more this summer. Tracking your steps can help you make sure you’re getting enough physical activity. Aim for at least 10,000 steps a day.

Remember That Housework and Chores Count

Doing housework and both indoor and outdoor chores burn calories too. Whether you’re mopping floors, gardening, or washing your vehicles, you’re getting active, which is essential for weight loss. Plan some active chores into your day regularly to boost your activity level this summer.

Take Your Exercise Routine Outdoors

During the winter months it’s often tougher to do things outdoors, so make sure that you take advantage of the warm days of summer and take your exercise routine outdoors. Nearly any type of home workout can be moved outdoors. If you love yoga, head to a park or in your backyard with your yoga mat. If you normally walk on a treadmill, do some brisk walking on local trails or simply around your neighborhood. Even strength building routines can be taken outdoors. Simply use bodyweight exercises and build muscle anywhere while you’re outdoors.

Stay Active with Some Group Activities

Group activities offer a great way to stay active during the summer. They’re not only a lot of fun, but they keep you accountable. Join a volleyball league, meet friends at a tennis court, or plan weekend hiking trips with a group of buddies. Even a great game of pick-up on the basketball court will get everyone moving and burning calories. Another benefit – not only does exercise help control your blood pressure, but time socializing with friends helps lower blood pressure, too.

Skip the Food Festivals for a Fitness Festival

Food festivals and music festivals are all big events in the summer months. Hit too many food festivals and it’s easy to tank up on more good food than you need. To add more activity to your summer, skip those food festivals and try a fitness festival instead. Outdoor bootcamps, yoga festivals, and surfing festivals abound during the summer, so head to one and enjoy getting active while you enjoy the festival spirit.