Looking for a break from your usual routine? Get outside and have some fun. These fun-in-the-sun ideas will make you forget you're burning calories!
Switch gears this weekend with a fun bike ride. Dust off your bike seat and go for a ride around the block. If you don't own a bike, find a local park that offers bike rentals. Ask a friend to come along, pack a picnic, and make a day of it. Cycling is a great activity for strengthening your heart and toning your lower half. And, like they say, you never forget how to ride.
Here's a no-sweat activity: swimming. Nothing beats a cool pool on a hot summer day. But before you hop on a comfy raft, sneak in a couple of moves. Warm up with a few laps to get your heart pumping. Continue swimming laps if you're in an Olympic mood, or try water walking in the shallow end. Water walking is a no-impact activity that's easy on your joints and muscles. The water provides just enough resistance to really work your legs and arms.
Get ready to polish up that backhand. Grab a racket—and an opponent—and find a free tennis court. You'd be surprised; chasing that little yellow ball can be an intense activity. It also helps improve balance and coordination. If you're ready to sharpen your tennis technique, look into lessons.
Golf may seem like a laid-back activity. But actually, an 18-hole golf course can be up to 4 miles long. Skip the cart rental, and that's a pretty long walk. If you've never played, you can always take an introductory lesson. Or try a different kind of golf—disc golf. With disc golf, you don't need a tee time or fancy plaid pants, just a nice throwing disc and a course. Find a disc golf course near you.
In-line skating became a hot trend in the '90s. Although its popularity may have faded, its physical benefits have not. Like jogging, in-line skating is a great cardiovascular activity, but it's easier on your bones and joints—that is, if you can avoid a nasty fall. Make sure you pad up with all of the right safety equipment and find a smooth trail at a local park.
There are plenty of other outside activities to try. The key is finding the one you enjoy. And who knows? Your new activity may last past the summer months—and become something you'll enjoy for years to come.
