Welcome back, everyone! As the summer heat continues to wave over many cities across the U.S., we thought it would be the perfect time to offer up a few ideas for how you can optimize your health and exercise today. Keep reading below to find out our favorite tips and tricks for staying active in the summer and taking advantage of seasonal workouts!

Let’s Engage in Summer Workouts…

Self-Guided

Above all, getting to the gym and rotating around a few different machines is a traditional, basic, and effective way to get your body moving. Whether this means the elliptical, treadmill, weight machines, stair climber, bench, or any other material you have as a resource, get on there and get going! The hardest part about working out is getting to the gym, and remembering that every other person is there for the same reason that you are is a great way to decrease the nerves and start increasing your confidence. So, if you’re someone who may be prone to over-heating during outdoor workout activities, hitting the gym might be the perfect option for you… year round!

Bicycling Outside

No matter where you live, we can almost guarantee that there are forest preserves, hiking routes, or outdoor bike paths near you. This may look like a few miles or a few hours.. anything works! Just get on, and get moving. Bicycling is a fantastic lifetime sport that does not require the same cardio exertion as would a treadmill or outdoor run. Not only is this sport maintainable and a great way to burn some calories, but is a super-inclusive activity for any aged person looking to get riding.

Find a Hill

Cardio lovers… this one is for YOU! If you live in relatively close distance to a hill (at parks, near schools, at a neighborhood recreation center, etc.), this is a cost-free and highly effective workout for individuals seeking a cardio-heavy experience. Taking the side stairs or running up the face of the hill will provide equally exhausting and rewarding exercise experiences at your leisure and at a self-guided pace. Remember, getting there is the hardest part! Whether you run, jog, or walk, moving your body is a success in and of itself… and there’s always room to continually improve! Working out is a lifestyle above all else, so take it slow and steady to optimize your health.

Pickleball, Tennis, or Golf

A few more lifetime sports for your leisure… try out pickleball, tennis, or golf this summer! While you may be a beginner, many of the sports are super approachable and accessible for all ages and athletic levels. For example, there are many golf simulation opportunities or spots like Top Golf where you can simply try out driving ranges instead of a full course. Alternatively, many pickleball courts and tennis spots are open for free admission depending on time or day! So, make sure to rent some rackets or clubs, and try out a new skill today.

Online Classes and Videos

We’re sure just about every single one of you has heard of a friend, family member, or have even found yourself engaging with online fitness content. YouTube, IGTV, live videos, and almost every social platform have taken to fitness classes taught through the screen. If you’re like me, and 91-degree weather means staying inside and away from the heat of the sun, this is a great alternative to maintain movement! Even more, many fitness classes require no added equipment or materials to participate… so all you need is you.