The calendar says we are in the first week of Summer. With the scorching hot weather, and a forecast full of sunshine, I would have to agree: Summer is here!
Summer is most definitely my favorite season. From shedding layers of clothing, BBQ dinners with friends, occasional drinks on a patio, and of course outdoor workouts, who doesn’t love summer!
For my family, we eagerly await the arrival of warm weather all Winter long. Frequent gym and at-home workouts move outdoors and we all have a blast working out and playing together.
Do you take advantage of the warmer weather and move your workouts outdoors?There is always a great workout for both the body and the mind in the fresh air with sun shining down.
Walking is a great way to get some fresh air and natural Vitamin D after being cooped up all Winter. It can also be great exercise and it is easy to do. Pick up your pace and look for a couple of hills in your neighborhood to get your heart rate elevated.
The mountains are just a short drive away and hiking offers many of the same perks as walking. Add in some nice views, fresh air, and all the sounds and smells of nature for a great well rounded workout that includes cardio training, muscle strength, and improves balance.
I am, and always have been, a huge fan of cycling. From the day the majority of the ice has melted, you will find my out on my bike headed somewhere. Whether its an easy ride around town with my boys biking alongside me and the girls in the trailer, a longer ride into the city and back, or hitting the trails in Kananaskis or Banff it is always an adventure on our bikes. Adventure, calories burned, and a muscle-building leg workout who could ask for anything more?
The playground is also a great place to enjoy a workout in the warmer weather. So what if it has been years since you were on the monkey bars or climbed to the top of the play structure. Act like a kid again and have some fun.
If finding your inner child and hitting up the playground doesn’t interest you, you will be hard pressed to not come across an impromptu game of soccer, football or baseball at one of the many grassy areas around town. Ask to join in or start your own. Before you know it you heart rate will be elevated, you will be sweating and you might make a new friend or two, young or old!
Are water sports more your thing? Get out on the lake that we are all so fortunate to have in our backyards. The options for exercise on the water are endless with kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, or even waterskiing and wakeboarding. Or keep your water workout on the cheap end and just hop in and go for a swim.
Some days, sticking close to home is more our style. Whether the kids are down for naps or some work needs to be done around the house, it is no excuse to skip a workout. I frequently hop out on the trampoline with the boys or even after they have gone to be for a great cardio and leg workout. Gardening is also a favorite pass time. Between digging holes, pushing a wheelbarrow, and squatting between plants and pulling has my muscles activated and feeling the workout the following day.
Summer is definitely here and I hope it is here to stay. Take advantage of the warm weather and the unlimited options for fitness right outside your door.
