5 Fun Ways To Stay In Shape This Summer
Staying in shape during the school year can be hard enough between classes and commitments, but it can be even harder to do over the summer. Between internships and summer jobs it’s difficult to make your way to the gym for a normal workout routine, or even find a gym to go to. With gym memberships so high these days, they’re almost always out of a college student’s budget.
My friends and I are constantly figuring out ways to stay fit and workout consistently, despite out irregular schedules. We’ve devised a routine and lifestyle that keeps us active and in shape, while adhering to our varying availability and interests.
Here’s What We’ve Found Works For Us:
1.) Bike Instead of Drive:
Do you remember being a kid and getting your very first bike? You wanted to ride it everywhere right? Well channel that feeling into your everyday life now and your leg muscles will be sure to thank you for it. Riding your bike can be a great way to stay in shape while traveling from place to place this summer, not to mention it’s good for the environment. If you need to go to a friends house, or run errands at the grocery store, why not take your bike instead? It’s a fun way to travel, in addition to being a great exercise. My friends and I love to ride our bikes through bike trails in the woods during the summer while hanging out and exploring the outdoors.
2.) Go For A Hike:
My friends and I have always been outdoor enthusiasts so we’ve found an easy way to incorporate our love of fresh air and nature with our goal of keeping fit. What could be a better way to appreciate the outdoors while getting a workout than a good hike? We always like to give ourselves a challenge and you can do the same; find a nearby mountain or forest and gather your adventurous friends for a hike.
Not only is it great for your legs, thighs, and calf muscles, but it’s also a perfect activity for you and a small group of friends. You can chat and catch up with each other while keeping yourself healthy.My friends and I will go for a hike once a week every Sunday, and even though once a week may not sound like a lot, it still does wonders for your health. You’ll find that each hike will get easier and easier for you as you start to tone your muscles with each time you go.
3.) Organize A Pick-Up Game:
Everyone enjoys some friendly competition every now and then and pick-up sports games give you just that. Gather up your athletic friends and challenge them to a game of soccer or basketball; they wont be able to turn down a fun game in the flawless summer weather.
These games will definitely help you burn calories and keep your heart rate up, and the running involved gives you a great cardio workout. The nice thing about playing a pick-up sports game is that it can be easy to fit in around your schedule. If you’re busy during the day, then you can always play in the evening; a lot of courts or fields have lights to illuminate your game at night. It wont be hard to continue playing throughout the summer, because someone is almost always looking for a rematch.
4.) Swim:
With the summer heat in full force my friends and I are always cooling off in the pool or the lake. Perfectly enough it is also a fantastic workout. Swimming works both your leg and arm muscles, giving you great full-body exercise.
Not only can it keep you cool during the summer days, but it also keeps you in great shape. Try to go swimming a couple times a week and by the end of the summer you’ll find yourself with toned arms and a nice tan.
5.) Eat Healthy And Remember The Little Things:
While trying to stay in shape this summer, don’t forget the little things. They’ll go a long way towards keeping you healthy. Being back home means that I have more freedom over the meals and food that I eat. I always try to incorporate fruits and vegetables into my diet. If you start to eat healthy, you’ll begin to see a huge change in your health and energy.
I’ve never been a huge fan of vegetables, however I love the green smoothie from my local smoothie shop. It has a daily serving of vegetables in it, but you would never be able to tell.It’s a great way to keep to a healthy diet and have a refreshing drink in the summer heat. I also always try to take the stairs as opposed to the elevator whenever I can; the more often you do this the healthier you’ll be. These might seem like little things, but they can have a big impact on your life and fitness.
Category: Exercise, Extracurricular, Summer
