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Summer is the time of year for you to get outside and enjoy the sunshine before it gets cold and you’re stuck indoors again.  So, instead of spending all your time in the gym, get outdoors and work some of these ideal summer exercises into your routine.

Summer Exercise Ideas

Swimming

Swimming is an ideal summer exercise.  Chances are, you are probably already going to some sort of body of water on a frequent basis whether it is the beach, lake, or pool.  If you are already going to be in the water, you might as well get a workout in.  Swim a few laps, do some sort of water aerobics, or tread water in the deep end.

Hiking

Hiking can be a fun way to get exercise during the summer.  For one, nature is in full bloom and everything is green and beautiful.  Plus, it is usually a lot cooler in the mountains than it is in the city.  We are close to the North Carolina mountains and there are some amazing hiking trails throughout them.  Pack a cooler bag with lunch and plenty of water and make a day of it.  If you are into photography, bring your camera.  Just remember not to pack too much or it will become cumbersome to carry it all.

Kayaking

When it gets hot out, there can be nothing better than taking a trip on a cold body of water.  Whether it’s on a lake, the ocean, or a river, kayaking can be a great workout and a lot of fun.  One of my favorite spots is in the North Carolina mountains.  As I mentioned above, the mountains can be a lot cooler than the city areas and the water is a lot colder making kayaking a refreshing break from the heat.

Surfing or Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

Surfing is the ultimate summer exercise if you live near a beach.  It works out the whole body and is so much fun that you don’t realize you are getting a good workout in.  Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, or SUPing, is a cross between surfing and kayaking.  Using a larger, slightly more stable version of a surf board, you paddle yourself around while standing.  It really works out your abs as you try to keep your balance. 

Sports

Finally, try out a great summer sport.  Volleyball is always a good choice.  Preferably on the beach, if you live near one.  Tennis, ultimate frisbee, and even golf are all good choices as well.  Check your local recreation center for a league you could join.  You may discover some other great sports teams to join.  For example, quite a few of the places I have lived have had kickball leagues.  Always a lot of fun.

Summer is a great time to get outdoors and get active.  However, make sure you are drinking plenty of water as the possibility of dehydration is very high during the summer season.  Also, be sure to wear plenty of ” rel=”noopener noreferrer”>sunscreen to protect your skin from burning, wrinkles, and skin cancer. 

Comment below and share your favorite summer exercise.