We’ve taken off our winter coats and jackets and are wearing clothing to accommodate hot weather. Most of us are not going to be comfortable with what we see in our mirrors but we can’t stay covered up and comfortable when the heat strikes. Here are some tips to making summer fitness easy, so that you not only look better but you feel your best as well.
Tip #1 Start Early in the Day
Plan your exercise routine for early in the morning before the sun is at its hottest. Why not go to bed a littler earlier to get up an hour earlier to exercise or get your body moving? Jump out of bed and do a few slow stretches. March in place to get your blood flowing. Or do some jumping jacks.
Tip #2 Take the Stairs
If you work or live in an air-conditioned building, let’s say a high-rise, taking the stairs is a great way to get exercise. Going up the stairs is better on joints and cartilage, and more calories are burned with every muscle used to climb upward. Start out easy and play games with this exercise. If you live or work on the 5th floor, then walk up to the second floor and take the elevator. Variations of this will keep you stimulated and motivated.
Tip #3 Seek Summer Sports Fellowships
In almost every city, there is a summer league of amateur sportspeople. They can be found online or in a local newspaper or even right at your job. Why not start one at your church or house of worship? Fellowship in the form of weekly, consistent exercise is great for the mind, body, soul and of course, the spirit. Find or create an amateur volleyball, softball or soccer league that makes the fellowship as fun as the exercise.
Tip #4 Dance, Dance, and Dance
You can do something as formal as take a group class in line dancing or in a more formal type of dance such as ballet and modern. However, there is nothing like dancing to praise & worship music around the house while you’re cleaning or cooking.
Tip #5 Walk
It seems simple enough, but walking is the greatest exercise there is to keep heart rates up and muscles toned. Walk around the neighborhood or the mall, walk in a group or alone. Walk to enjoy the sights of an area that you’ve long enjoyed from your car window in passing. Make it exciting and fun, but walk.
Summer exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous, but there is no other season friendlier to outdoor activity and movement. You will love the benefits and will enjoy knowing that you have made an effort towards your fitness goals.
