Now that summer has arrived, the bright sunshine and warm
weather tempt us all away from our routines. Take advantage of the beauty the
world has to offer now and move some of your indoor activities outside. Whether
you are a devoted gym-goer or want to begin an exercise routine, here are seven
ways to improve your health while enjoying the great outdoors.
1. Take a Walk
Whether you walk alone, with a friend, or with your dog, you will find that
starting your day with an invigorating walk will help jump-start your energy
and set you up for success. A 120-pound person burns about 65 calories per mile
and a 180-pound person burns about 100 calories per mile. You do not have to
walk fast to reap the benefits, because weight and distance are the most
important factors. Walking around your neighborhood allows you to really see
it, engage with your neighbors, and feel connected. For fun, choose
different neighborhoods to visit.
2. Go for a Hike
Most areas have some hiking trails within a short driving distance. The
benefits of hiking include more challenging terrain to increase your fitness
and time out in nature, away from the noises of the city. Wear appropriate
clothing for the weather and bring plenty of water.
3. Ride your Bike
Riding your bike is an excellent way to boost your fitness while having fun.
It’s an activity that families can enjoy together. Many cities are developing
networks of trails so you can avoid traffic, and some even have choices of
urban and rural trails. If you don’t have a bike or you’re traveling, check to
see if the city you’re in has a city bike program that allows you to rent
bikes. Seeing a new city by bike is a time-efficient way to get around but
still see the sites. An average person can burn 450-750 calories an hour
biking, so it’s also a good cardiovascular workout and easy on the knees.
4. Do Outdoor Gardening
If
you’re feeling pressed for time, combine a chore with healthy activity. Tending
to your garden is a workout that is also productive. Pulling weeds, planting
flowers, and mowing the lawn can help you burn 200-400 calories per hour. When
you’re done, you’ll feel great and your yard will look great, too.
5. Go for a Swim
Summer is the time for swimming. Though of course people
think of lap-swimmers when they think of swimming exercise, you burn plenty of
calories casually swimming, too. Even swimming leisurely, one can burn 250 or
more calories per hour. Some added benefits of swimming are that it is easy on
the joints and the pool naturally cools you off while you’re exercising.
6. Paddle a Kayak
If you have a lake or large pond nearby, consider kayaking as a summer
activity. Many areas have kayaking outfitters who will rent you all of the
equipment you need to paddle on the water. Kayaking provides an excellent
upper-body muscle and cardiovascular workout while also being low-impact. Being
on the water can be calming and allow you to enjoy nature from a different
perspective. Make sure to wear a life jacket.
7. Exercise Outside
Many yoga studios are moving their classes outside to take advantage of the
nice weather. Some cities are even offering yoga in parks and public spaces.
This is a fun way to enhance your yoga practice or to begin one. With all the
benefits yoga provides, such as improved strength and flexibility, reduced
stress, and better sleep, why not give it a try? If you are advanced in your
yoga practice, consider trying a stand up paddle boarding or SUP. Many of the
techniques used in yoga are necessary for SUP success and, like kayaking, it is
an interesting way to engage with nature.
No matter which outdoor activities you try, remember to
wear your sunscreen, hydrate, and eat nutritional snacks to fuel your body. Try
Superberries Aronia Berry Chews as a better-for-you snack. They provide your
body with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and they are delicious alone or
as part of trail mix.
