Summer time is when the shorts, tank tops, and swimsuits start appearing. Getting in shape so you feel better about how you look in that new outfit is one reason, but another is to simply lead a healthier lifestyle. Whether you are concerned about the way you look or you are looking for a way to improve your quality of life, here are 7 ways to get in shape for summer.
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7. Rent a Couple of Videos on Aerobics
This can actually be a lot of fun. A good friend of mine thought it would be fun to rent some old 80s aerobic videos from the video store in town. Not only were they a great workout, since aerobics really don’t change that much from year to year, but the clothing worn by the participants had us laughing as we exercised. It was a lot of fun!
6. Play with the Kids
Who says kids can’t help you keep in shape? They are great little bundles of energy who are more than willing to show you a new game they just came up with. Toddlers will keep you on your toes, while teens can engage in more challenging games that require more physical strength. Get out there and challenge your toddler to a game of tag or your teen to a game of basketball.
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5. Sign up for a Spin Class
I remember when I first heard someone mention signing up for a spinning class I immediately envisioned her twirling in a room with outstretched arms. I always thought this was a fantastic way to spend the afternoon when I was a kid, but this action makes me feel light-headed and nauseous now that I’m much older. Thankfully, a spin class is simply riding a machine resembling a stationary bicycle. If you aren’t able to get out and ride a bicycle in your area, then a spin class is the next best thing. This calorie-burning activity is more fun than running on a treadmill, in my opinion.
4. Join the Gym
Maybe you need others like you who are trying to get in shape for the summertime. Go to the gym and join for at least a month to see what you think. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy the time spent exercising with others who are thinking like you.
3. Take up Swimming
You don’t have to be a professional swimmer to reap the benefits of swimming. Take along a kick board and exercise your legs as you kick from one end of the pool to the other. The same kick board can also be tucked against your chest while you use your arms and legs to propel yourself forward. Swimming uses up a lot of calories and will get your arms, legs, shoulders, and back toned up in no time!
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2. Start Walking Regularly
Take a neighbor, your best friend, spouse, kids, or even the dog and go for a walk. You don’t have to walk 6 miles in the first day to get in shape. Walking is something that just about anyone can do, no matter what shape they are in. Take your time and make sure you have shoes with lots of arch support. Start with a 10 or 15 minute walk and add on 5 minutes each week. You can also purchase a pedometer to keep track of how many steps you are taking on your walks, if this helps you monitor your progress better.
1. Do Some Gardening
There is a lot of physical activity involved with gardening; hoeing, raking, tilling, bending over, pulling weeds, carrying buckets of water or soil, standing up and stooping down repeatedly, and hauling out the old garden hose. It’s actually a fun and very physical activity.
If you are looking for some ideas on how to become more fit, then these 7 ways to get in shape for summer should be rather handy. How do you plan on getting in shape this summer?
Top Photo Credit: tricky ™
