Fitness at the Campground
By Brandi Goodman
Camping is a common summer pastime. Even though you may want to take a break from the world and spend your time away relaxing, it's really important you get some exercise daily. There are plenty of fitness options you can try at the campground -- many of which you'll be doing anyway.
Swimming
Take advantage of the available swimming opportunities and get your exercise in a cool way. You'll stay cool and feeling good as you swim -- whether you're in a pool, pond, or other body of water. It's also easier on the joints than working out on land. Even a leisurely swim can help you burn calories while improving your strength.
Walking Trails
A leisurely walk along the nearby trails might already be on your to-do list. Take it up a notch by walking briskly or even going for a morning jog and you'll be improving your lower body strength and back while getting fit. Biking is also a solid option if you brought yours along and bikes are allowed on the path.
Kayaking or Canoeing
Some campsites offer kayak or canoe rentals that you can use on their pond or lake. Take the opportunity if you can and get out on the water. You'll get a great arm workout as you work to paddle the vessel from the shore to out on the water and back again.
Playing at the Playground
If you have kids, you have the perfect excuse to enjoy the playground. Many campsites have one or more for the kiddos in the area to play on. Join your children and use the provided "workout equipment" to your advantage. You can swing, make your way across the monkey bars, slide, and more and work up a sweat in the process. Even without a playground available, you can still play with your kids as a way to exercise. Toss a ball around. Dig in the dirt with them. Play catch. There are plenty of fun options.
Getting your tent set up and taken down may be quite the exercise itself. It can be a lot of work to wrangle all the pieces into the right places. Aside from that, you should still find time for fitness during your camping trip and enjoy the many activities possible as a way to burn calories, work up a sweat, and get your daily exercise in.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Avon, Ind.