Summer is the perfect time of year to take advantage of the outdoors when looking to get active. From outdoor cycling, to swimming and hikes, there are endless options for summer fitness fun. Exercising outside boosts your mental health, gives you access to fresh air, and is more accessible than indoor facilities for many people. Here are five ways you can get outside this summer for your workouts.

1. Hiking

Hiking is a great way to get a full body workout while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. Whether you enjoy local trails, community parks and nature reserves, or National Parks, you can determine the level of rigor you want your hike to be and adjust accordingly. Hiking is an accessible exercise option for many, because it is typically a free activity to partake in. Some parks may charge a low fee to enter, however many trails are free to the community. Lace up your hiking boots and discover what your area has to offer.

2. Swimming

Swimming is another fabulous outdoor fitness activity for those looking for a way to have fun in the sun this summer. Due to water’s buoyancy, swimming can provide a low-impact workout on your muscles. Swimming engages multiple muscle groups, providing a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, enhances flexibility and builds strength. Swimming outdoors also exposes you to natural sunlight, allowing your body to absorb vitamin D, which plays a vital role in bone health and immune function. Whether you choose to plunge into a lake, ride the waves at your local beach, or swim laps in your community pool, swimming outdoors during the summer months provides the perfect escape from the heat and the opportunity to work your whole body.

3. Kayaking or Canoeing

Looking for a more leisurely activity this summer? Try kayaking or canoeing. One of the great advantages of canoeing and kayaking is the upper-body workout they provide. Paddling engages your upper body muscles, including your arms, shoulders, and back, as you maneuver the paddle through the water. The constant resistance of the water strengthens these muscle groups over time, leading to increased endurance and improved muscular strength. Kayaking or canoeing can be a fun activity to do with family or friends and many parks have rentals available, making this water sport accessible to many.

4. Paddleboarding

For those more confident on the water, stand-up paddle boarding is a unique way to get in a full upper body workout while soaking up nature. This increasingly popular water activity offers a unique blend of balance, serenity and fitness, making it an ideal choice for enjoying the outdoors during the warmer months. Whether you prefer gliding along calm lakes, exploring coastal waters, or riding gentle waves at the beach, paddle boarding provides a remarkable experience that engages your body and rejuvenates your mind.

5. Cycling

Jump on a bike and hit the road this summer. Cycling outdoors during the summer offers an exceptional cardiovascular workout. By pedaling energetically, you elevate your heart rate, working on your cardiovascular health and boosting endurance. As you navigate diverse terrains, from level pathways to large hills, your leg muscles actively come into play, strengthening and toning your quadriceps, hamstrings and calves. Consistent cycling sessions lead to heightened stamina, expanded lung capacity and an overall enhancement of physical fitness.

Connect with nature and rejuvenate both your body and mind this summer with one of these outdoor fitness ideas. Whether you choose to go for a short hike, or cycle through a National Park, any level of fitness outdoors is sure to leave you feeling refreshed. Hoping to see results this summer from your fitness plans? Book a consultation with LightRx today to see how we can help you get one step closer to your goals!