You don’t have to train like an athlete to stay fit this summer. Just try these outdoor activities to burn calories and keep your body toned without hitting the gym.
Beach volleyball
If you’re lucky enough to live near a beach, this sport is a great way to get your heart rate up, make friends, and tone your legs, shoulders, and core. And because it’s harder to move in the sand, you get extra calorie burn.
Gardening
Burn calories while making your yard more beautiful. Constantly bending and squatting to reach plants is great for your glutes, and your garden will be the envy of your neighbors.
Surfing
Simply playing in the surf lets you burn calories even as you cool off. To get a better workout, be sure to paddle hard past the breakers to increase your heart rate.
Tennis
Pick up your racket and challenge your friend, neighbor, or spouse to a game of tennis. Running around the court allows you to sneak in an aerobic workout while hitting the ball is a great arm toner.
Bicycling (light)
Biking can be a great way to get around as well as to tone your quads and hamstrings. A light ride burns more calories than walking, and riding up hills will keep your legs jiggle-free.
Frisbee
Playing Frisbee can be more than just a leisurely activity. A light game can keep you fit, and if you get a team together for a game of ultimate Frisbee, you will burn 272 calories in just 30 minutes.
In-line skating
Break out your roller blades and hit the pavement for a cardio workout that also tones your legs, hips, and glutes. Plus, the faster you go, the better the breeze.
Swimming leisurely
Cool off and enjoy this refreshing low-impact activity. And you don’t have to be an expert in butterfly to torch calories. Moving through the water even at a slow pace gives you an aerobic workout that tones your entire body.
Sightseeing
Out of town and no gym? See the sights by walking the streets of whichever city or town you’re visiting. When possible, hit the hills to tighten up your hamstrings and glutes.
Scuba diving
If you’re lucky enough to take a tropical vacation, make time for this exciting and eye-opening exercise. And if scuba diving is not your forte, you can go snorkeling. It lets you burn 170 calories in the same amount of time.
(Photo and article courtesy of Health.com)
