Crossroads Fitness Blog

We wait all year, it seems, for summer to arrive. Aah … it’s finally here. 

When most of us think of summer, we think about outdoor fun and a chance to kick back. Beware, though: Changing schedules also could make it more difficult to keep your fitness routine on track. So what can you do to have the most active, fun-filled and productive summer ever?

Warm weather offers opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Take the family camping, fishing or hiking. Work in your garden. Part of summer fun and fulfillment is enjoying the outdoors and the people you’re with.    

During the summer months, your normal schedule could be altered. Those changes can affect daily routines, including exercise schedules. Here are a few tips to avoid sabotaging yourself this summer.

Set a summer goal. It’s almost mid-year. Ask yourself how you’ve done so far this year on your New Year’s resolutions. You might have succeeded in some areas, but not others. You could need to re-evaluate your goals to make them more realistic and attainable. Maybe you didn’t set goals. This is a great time to start. Try setting a different goal. Called it summer 2023. What will that goal look like? It might be trying a new sport, learning to swim or visiting a national park.

Stick to a schedule. Make Quick read more or view full article sure your summer days include some structure — like getting up at the same time each day and eating meals at set times. Plan activities for specific times — exercising before breakfast, for example.

Keep busy. Without your appointment book filled, it could be easy to fall into a trap of becoming bored. Boredom goes hand in hand with low energy. Filling your days with things to do will give you a sense of accomplishment.
For many of us, summer still means going to work each day. But with more daylight hours, you don’t have to miss out. Whether you’re taking a vacation or just a weekend, include activities the family already enjoys — along with something new.   

Manage the heat. Although warmer weather is appreciated, hot days can seem unbearable. During these times, move your activities elsewhere. Exercise at the gym or splash in a pool. When you find yourself outdoors during scorching temperatures, remember to stay safe. Wear sunscreen or a long-sleeve shirt to protect your skin from harmful rays. Don’t forget sunglasses and a hat, too. Clothing that wicks moisture away from your skin as you perspire keeps you cooler. One of the most important items to keep you safe is water. Stay hydrated.

Eat healthy. This seems like an easy thing to do with all the fresh vegetables and fruits available. Beware, though, of some of the foods associated with summer events. Backyard barbecues, campfire s’mores and ice cream treats can ruin the best-laid plans of staying fit through the summer. 

Make summer a time to enjoy. Write down your summer 2023 goals and work toward realizing those goals. Make the most of every day, and you’ll make this summer your best ever.