Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities, soak up the sun, and make the most of your fitness routine. However, it can be challenging to stay on track with your health and fitness goals while still having fun during this season. Let’s explore five ways to help you stay fit and have a blast this summer!
1. Embrace Outdoor Workouts:
Take advantage of the nicer weather by incorporating outdoor workouts into your routine. If you live in areas where it gets too hot and humid this time of year, workout early in the morning or take your workouts to the water.
- Swap the treadmill for a refreshing jog in your favorite park
- Try a yoga session on the beach
- Go for a bike ride on a scenic trail
- Go for an early morning swim or try something new like paddleboarding
Find activities you really enjoy and leave you wanting more. You can invite friends and family to join you, or you can do these workouts on your own. Find what works best for you.
This will break you out of your normal work-out patterns, you will engage different muscle groups, enjoy the new surroundings, and get a healthy dose of vitamin D!
2. Stay Hydrated
With the higher temperatures, it’s crucial to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Carry a water bottle with you wherever you go
- Start your day out with a big glass of water before you consume any other beverages
- Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily
- Infuse your water with fruit and herbs to make it more refreshing and less boring
Staying hydrated not only benefits your overall health but also helps regulate body temperature and supports optimal workout performance. Both of these will help you to workout longer, stronger, and lead you into a better recovery.
3. Focus on Balanced Nutrition
Maintaining a balanced diet is essential for staying fit and healthy. Summertime is a tempting time of year when one finds themselves indulging in sweet treats like ice cream, barbecues, and refreshing cocktails. While it’s okay to enjoy these treats in moderation, be mindful of portion sizes and opt for healthier alternatives whenever possible.
- Follow the 80/20 rule. Eat healthy 80 percent of the time and indulge in some of your summer favorites 20 percent of the time.
- Load up on seasonal fruits and veggies
- Increase your lean protein intake, especially if you are more active
- Try healthier versions of some of your favorite summer treats (see nice cream recipe below)
Eating a well-balanced meal plan fuels your body and provides essential nutrients for optimal health and wellness.
Mango Banana Nice Cream Recipe
1 cup of frozen mango (or another fruit)
1/2 frozen banana
1/2 to 3/4 cups of your favorite plant-based milk
Blend together until it’s the consistency of ice cream. Slowly add more milk if it’s too thick and sprinkle with shredded coconut if desired. I like the texture it adds but you can add nuts or whatever your preference is.
This is a great treat you can make at home to satisfy your sweet tooth without all the extra junk. Save the trip to your local ice cream shop for special occasions when you are out and about with family and friends.
4. Try New Activities
Summer is the perfect time to explore new activities and sports.
- Engage in outdoor family games like volleyball, frisbee, or cornhole
- Join a local sports team or take a new exercise class
- Start a new hobby like kayaking or gardening
Trying new activities not only keeps you mentally and physically engaged but also helps you discover enjoyable ways to stay active. It can also be a way to connect with friends while doing something healthy. That’s a win-win in my book!
5. Set Realistic Goals
While it’s essential to stay committed to your fitness goals, it’s equally crucial to set realistic expectations. Summer often comes with vacations, social gatherings, and spontaneous plans. Instead of stressing over a rigid routine, set achievable goals that allow flexibility. This way, you can enjoy your summer while still making progress towards your fitness objectives.
Staying fit and having fun this summer can go hand in hand. By embracing these 5 tips this summer you can maintain your fitness journey while enjoying the season to the fullest. Remember, summer is a time to relax, recharge, and have a great time, so find the right balance that works for you and make the most of this vibrant season.
Click here for your healthy summer habits guide!
Wishing you much love, health, and happiness,
Christine
