Fun And Healthy Summer Activities

Summer is widely considered the best time of year to get out and breathe fresh air, enjoy picnics, and play in the water. There is endless fun to have during the warm days and nights. It is the best time to soak up some sun, whether you are enjoying family and friends or taking a quiet walk alone. Some healthy activities are swimming, a great full-body workout, or kayaking, which can challenge your core and upper body. For relaxation, strength, and flexibility, try practicing yoga on the sand. You cannot beat a summer day in the park. Parks offer recreation, playgrounds, and picnic facilities. With the warm weather, a few safety tips, and some outdoor activity ideas, you can plan a fun and healthy summer season.

Swimming

Swimming is likely the most popular summer activity. But, if you go for a swim in a lake, ocean, or stream, try not to swallow any of the water. If there is a designated swim area roped off, stay in it. Paddling in Mother Nature's pools can be invigorating, but jumping in a backyard or community pool can be just as revitalizing. If you are visiting a public pool, ask if there is a lifeguard on duty. Before diving in the water, take a quick rinse to help keep the pool clean. Always be courteous and aware of other swimmers, divers, and sunbathers in and around the pool. Have a partner with you when in the water anywhere and bring proper flotation devices for the area.

Camping

Camping is a great way to explore the outdoors and get away from the classroom, office cubical, and technology. You can locate campgrounds from tourist, state, or local campground websites. When doing so, find out if they require reservations. Have a gear checklist to make sure you bring enough of the comforts from home, but not everything of course. It is a good idea to air out your tent and sleeping bags before the trip. Meal planning is one of the most enjoyable parts of the adventure. Even though s’mores are always at the top of the list, think about healthy options too, such as grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. Bugs can be an issue in the evening, but you can combat them with natural citronella candles, bug spray, and a long sleeve shirt.

Canoeing And Kayaking

This water activity can be a peaceful float on a smooth lake, or it can be a challenging workout. Paddling the craft works out your arms, shoulders, back muscles, and takes a lot of stabilization. Your core muscles will be engaged if you are paddling quickly or the boat is rocking. When canoeing and kayaking, know the temperature of the water. The air could be warm, but the water might be chilly, so be prepared, because if you fall in the water, you will be cold and shivering. Paddling can be a group event, but if you are going it alone, stay close to the shore or where other individuals are. Know how to get into the canoe or kayak if you fall out, and always wear your life jacket.

Yoga On The Beach

Doing yoga on the beach gets you out of the studio and into wide-open spaces, and a class or session lets you experience the soft sand beneath you. Yoga classes can be anywhere from the early morning dawn, at sunset, or at night. When practicing on the beach, there is the added benefit of the relaxing sounds of the waves and the reflection of the sunlight or moon beans off the water. When you do yoga on the beach, you need a few extra items, such as sunscreen. In addition, have a beach towel even though yoga mats will probably be provided, as towels help brush off the sand. You may find doing the poses in the sand is much more difficult because the sand is a moving surface underneath your feet. Posing on sand causes your core, feet, and mind to focus on balance.

Going To The Park

Going to the park is the least expensive traditional summer activity, and it can provide many healthy options. Most parks have extensive walking or cross-country trails. You can meander under the shade of trees or run your toes through the green grass while listening to bird songs and the laughter of children. Now some parks have free outdoor gym equipment setup, which usually consists of pull-up bars, parallel bars, and planks. Playing frisbee can improve your hand-eye coordination and get your heart rate up. Chasing the disc, catching, and throwing it back is a great way to burn off your picnic lunch. If you are picnicking, be sure to use hand sanitizer and wipes. Keep your hands clean, and pack food with safety in mind. Protect the refrigerated items with a cold ice chest.