Summertime Fitness for the Whole Family
By Brandi Swieter
June, July, and August make up the summer months that so many families enjoy spending together. Instead of staying stuck inside, as many have done during the cold days of winter and rainy days of spring, families use the summertime as a way to get fit and have fun. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy that promote family fitness.
Biking
Riding bikes is a favorite pastime of many. Make sure each member of the family has a working bike and go for rides together often for a fitness-related bonding time. Either cycle through a park that allows it or head down to an ice cream shop for the occasional treat. Try to find paths up hills for a real workout.
Swimming
Many families spend their summers swimming, often without realizing the physical benefits are of the activity. Swimming promotes fitness in a big way, with all of the muscles being worked as people wade through the water or swim from one area of the pool to the other. It provides a low-impact workout that any member of the family can do, from young to old.
Berry Picking
Plenty of berries are ready for picking in summer. Berry picking is a great activity for families to do together. It allows them to bond while gathering healthy and nutritious foods to eat. Walking back and forth through the fields or trees gathering fruits will allow people to get in a good workout for the day. Strawberries, cherries, peaches, apples, blueberries, and tomatoes are all excellent options for picking in the summer.
Volunteering
Plenty of events take place in the summer, many of which require the use of volunteers to ensure things run smoothly. Families can volunteer together as a way to promote both fitness and health. Many of the activities have people walking all over in an attempt to help others or handle certain jobs. The legs will get a great workout during most volunteer work.
Fair Fun
Summer is often spent enjoying local fairs. With plenty to see and do at these events, the whole family can get in their exercise for the day by walking from one end of the fairgrounds to the other exploring all the options. Just be sure to avoid all the fair food that’s high in fat and calories. Search for the healthiest options or eat before heading out for a truly healthy day.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cottonwood Heights, Utah.