Summer offers boundless opportunities to spend time outdoors and try new activities. No matter your age, being active can improve your physical and mental well-being, and research shows that combining exercise with outdoor time may yield greater benefits, such as improved cognitive function. Here are a few ways you can stay active and increase your time outdoors this summer.
Ways to Stay Active This Summer
The warm summer months are a perfect excuse to spend more active time outside. Here are some activities you can fit into your routine to make your days more active:
- Explore your community on foot or by bike.
- Try an outdoor fitness class (e.g., yoga or Pilates in the park) or join a local walking group.
- Host a barbecue and outdoor games.
- Swim at a local pool or beach.
- Try a new sport (e.g., pickleball or volleyball).
- Take your exercise routine outdoors.
- Landscape or work in your garden.
- Stroll through an outdoor market.
- Dust off an old pair of roller skates.
- Try water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding.
- Pick produce at a local farm.
- Join a local sports league.
- Photograph birds around your neighborhood.
- Try plogging (picking up litter as you jog or walk).
- Try a new hiking or walking trail.
- Volunteer as a dog walker at your local shelter.
Summer Safety Tips
Exercising outdoors is a great way to boost mood, lower stress, and reduce depression. However, hot weather and humid days can stress your body more, and sun exposure can cause sunburn. Before starting a new summer activity, take the following precautions:
- Watch the weather for heat alerts and advisories.
- Start slowly to give your body time to adjust to the heat.
- Reduce your exercise intensity and take breaks when starting a new workout outside.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid the midday heat.
- Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and sunhats.
- Stop exercising and get out of the heat immediately if you feel symptoms of heat stroke.
Certain medications and medical diagnoses may increase your susceptibility to heat-related illnesses. Contact your primary care physician for more information on summer heat safety.
