Staying Fit While Having Fun in Summer
By Donna Stark
Unless you are training for a fitness competition and are on a very strict diet, I bet you don't eat the same thing day after day, and I'm also pretty sure you change your clothes from one day to the next. Variety is good, isn't it? And it's especially good when it involves our fitness routine as well! Right now, we are in the middle of summer, and I don't know about you, but I am tired of doing the same workouts over and over again. Yes, I have been swimming and yes, I have gone hiking too. I have utilized my gym more days than not and I have even pulled my bike out during the past couple of weekends. But I'm bored and looking for something new to do! What about you? Do you want some new ideas too? Take a look at some of my favorite ways to exercise that aren't quite the norm.
Paintball
There is nothing like the feeling you get when chased around the woods by friends with paintball guns. Imagine the number of calories you can burn with all the running, jumping, dodging, attacking, crawling, and crying you will do during each session. Just be careful though! You may come out with some extra bruises on your body.
Trampoline
You could purchase one for your backyard or you could stay in the air conditioning by visiting your local indoor trampoline park! Bring your entire family and spend the afternoon perfecting your jumps and flips, or show those snarky teenagers who is boss during the next round of trampoline dodgeball.
Swing Dancing
Swing dancing is a fun cardiovascular workout you can do with a friend or spouse that also helps build your upper-body strength. It is a vigorous, full-body workout that will leave you breathless within minutes. So grab a partner and find a class near you!
Mud Run
It's always fun to challenge yourself, but to be able to do it while getting dirty as well? Even better! Whether it's a small-town event or one that has hundreds of competitors, a mud run is a great way to push your body to its limits. And to make it even more fun and competitive, grab some friends and make the loser buy dinner!
Paddleboarding
Are your arms looking puny? Does your upper-body need a good workout? Try paddleboarding! It's a great way to work on your arms, core, and balance! Just remember ... you are in a body of water, so dress accordingly. In other words, don't wear jeans!
Summertime Exercise
Exercising in summer isn't only limited to the obvious. Sure, gyms are good and swimming is nice, but there are so many other options you can try that are a ton of fun! So go ahead and make the best of your summer, and improve your overall health and fitness in the process!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lakewood, Colo.