Great Outdoors Month Encourages Exercise
By Brandi Goodman
Great Outdoors Month in June is a huge motivator for exercise. The movement encourages people everywhere to head outside and find something enjoyable to do that hopefully promotes fitness as well. Taking a hike, going for a walk, boating, swimming, and even just spending time at a local park are all great ways to celebrate.
Walking and Hiking
Two common activities during Great Outdoors Month -- and throughout the remainder of the year -- are walking and hiking. Whether you walk through a nearby trail or hike some steep mountains, you're going to really work out your lower body and strengthen your legs and feet. You'll burn tons of calories as you explore the wilderness and see the beauty all around you.
Swimming
Swimming is another common practice during the summertime. Get out and swim anytime and anywhere you can for a chance to work out your entire body without hurting your delicate joints. It's a great option for those with arthritis or joint pain because it isn't as harsh as working out on solid surfaces. Swimming can work all major muscle groups at once. Find a local beach or lake where you can swim for free or swim the pool at a fitness center for a small fee.
Playing at the Park
Maybe you have kids to keep entertained. Even if you don't, go to the park anyway. You can use the playground for your workout routine -- climbing monkey bars, running across the wobbling bridge, swinging, and even using the open greenspace for other activities. You can have fun with your old childhood favorites while getting in a great workout. Many parks also have provided trails so you can take a walk and enjoy the scenery when you're done playing.
Boating
You may think sitting on a boat and drifting in the water would do nothing for your fitness goals. The truth of the matter is that you have to use your core strength to keep your body balanced and upright as the boat crashes over waves and throws you off balance regularly. Use a paddle boat that requires you to move the vessel with your legs, or a rowboat you need arm strength to maneuver, and you'll be exercising even more. Kayaks and canoes also fit in with this plan.
Don't stop in June. Celebrate the great outdoors any time you can by getting outside and enjoying nature. Walk, hike, bike, run, and play to your heart's content. It's great for your physical and mental well-being.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Santee, Calif.