Enjoy Summer Weather While Getting Fit
Unlike warmer countries, we Brits are used to doing our fitness training indoors, whether that’s in the local gym or even in our lounges with bodyweight exercises or some dumbbells.
However, with summer having finally arrived, this marks the opportunity to exercise outdoors, so you can get fit at the same time as enjoying the glorious sunshine.
Running
The most obvious outdoor workout is running, and the 16 and a half hours of daylight we currently have means runners can head outdoors whenever they want to.
Indeed, in June, the sun rises around 0445 and sets at 2120, which means you can put your trainers on and hit the pavement either before or after work with ease.
You could even fit in a half marathon before most people’s alarms have gone off, helping you to hit longer distances than ever before.
Make the most of the daylight this month, as days begin to shorten after the summer solstice on June 21st.
Watersports
Running is not the only sport you can take part in if you want to enjoy the longer days. Those living near open water can have a go at watersports, for instance.
Stand-up paddleboarding has been known to be an effective full-body workout, strengthening the core and lower body when trying to keep balance; and the back, shoulders and arms when paddling.
According to a 2016 study, stand-up paddleboarding resulted in aerobic and anaerobic fitness improvements, as well as stronger core strength.
Kayaking is also a popular watersport to take part in, helping to improve upper body and core muscles, as well as cardio fitness.
Although the UK isn’t as well-known a surfing hotspot as Australia, for instance, many people living by the coast enjoy sailing, wakeboarding, surfing and windsurfing.
So, if you are within reach of a beach or lake and can get your hands on equipment easily, it could be worth taking up a new hobby while the weather is fine.
Cycling
Lots of Brits love cycling and many country roads are full of avid cyclists every weekend, come rain or shine. However, those who are new to the sport are more likely to head out on two wheels when the sun is out.
The good thing about riding a bike is that it targets a huge range of muscles, including glutes, quads, calves and hamstrings.
It also works the upper body, strengthening the back, shoulders and arms. Having to maintain balance as you turn corners also builds core stability.
This cardio exercise can burn between 240 and 693 calories per half an hour, depending on the speed of travel and the weight of the rider.
Outdoor HIITs
Anyone who has become accustomed to doing high-intensity interval training (HIIT) from a workout video or with the help of their online personal trainer will know they can do their exercise anywhere they choose.
This also means in their own garden if they wish to. Instead of being cooped up in your lounge or garage, why not do your burpees, tuck jumpers, high knees, and press-ups outdoors?
All you need is your phone, an internet connection and some energy to get your pulse racing while soaking up the sunshine and reaping the benefits of being out in the fresh air.