Summer’s here! It’s a time for vacations, barbecues, and enjoying the great outdoors. But it’s also the perfect opportunity to kickstart a new health and wellness routine. With longer days and warmer weather, summer offers a natural boost to get active and make positive lifestyle changes.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to leverage the best of summer to establish a fitness routine that sticks. We’ll cover:
- Finding Activities You Love (and Can Stick With!)
- Sunshine and Sweat: Outdoor Workouts for Summer
- Summer Eats for Fitness Success: Food as Fuel
- Staying Motivated When the Temperature Soars
Why Summer is Prime Time for Fitness
Summer boasts several advantages for starting a new health and wellness routine:
- Sunshine Advantage: Sunlight increases Vitamin D production, which is essential for bone health and can enhance mood and energy levels Mayo Clinic: [invalid URL removed].
- Warm Weather Workouts: Warmer temperatures make outdoor activities more enjoyable, encouraging you to get moving.
Extended Daylight: Longer days provide more time to squeeze in a workout before or after work.
Finding Activities You Love
The key to a successful fitness routine is enjoying the activities you do. Here are some tips to find your perfect summer fit:
- Explore Outdoor Activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, kayaking – summer offers a wealth of options to get your heart pumping while enjoying nature.
- Team Up with a Buddy: Find a friend or family member to join you for workouts. Having a partner can boost motivation and make exercise more social.
- Consider Group Fitness Classes: Zumba, yoga in the park, or beach boot camps can add variety and keep things interesting.
Rekindle Old Passions: Did you love playing tennis as a kid? Dust off your racquet and hit the courts!
Sunshine and Sweat: Outdoor Workouts for Summer
Summer is a time to embrace the outdoors for your fitness routine. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Morning Walks/Runs: Enjoy the cooler temperatures and fresh air of an early morning jog or brisk walk.
- Strength Training in the Park: Utilize park benches, picnic tables, or playground equipment for bodyweight exercises.
- Beat the Heat with Water Workouts: Swimming is a low-impact, full-body workout that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Summer Eats for Fitness Success
Remember, food is fuel for your body. Here are some tips to keep your summer diet on track:
- Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially before, during, and after workouts.
- Grill Smart: Opt for lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish, and pair them with colourful summer veggies.
- Fresh and Local: Farmers’ markets are abundant in summer. Stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables for healthy snacking.
Staying Motivated When the Temperature Soars
Even with summer’s perks, motivation can wane. Here are some tips to stay on track:
- Set Realistic Goals: Start small and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
- Track Your Progress: Seeing your improvements can be a powerful motivator. Use a fitness tracker or journal to monitor your progress.
- Reward Yourself: Celebrate your achievements, big or small! Treat yourself to a new workout outfit or a relaxing massage.
Embrace the Summer Advantage
Summer is a fantastic time to invest in your health and wellness. By following these tips, you can create a routine that’s enjoyable, and sustainable, and sets you up for a healthier and happier you!
source:
(Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389)
www.drsimonebaum.com/blog/
Disclaimer:
This blog is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. Please consult a physician or other healthcare professional regarding medical or health-related diagnosis or treatment options. The information on this blog should not be considered a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. Claims made about specific products throughout this blog are not endorsed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.