Summer is officially here, the days seem to last forever and we haven’t had to even look at our winter coat in months so now is the time to get out there and start enjoying the summer sun and get yourself into shape. There are plenty of outdoor activities you can try that don’t have to cost the earth and that are going to get you fighting fit in no time.
Swimming
Swimming is something that most of us learn to do as children but then never seem to bother with once we’re adults unless we’re on holiday and just having a poolside splash about. Swimming is not the ideal exercise if you’re looking to lose weight but if you simply want to get into shape swimming is a great cardiovascular workout. It get’s your whole body moving, strengthens and tones your muscles and it’s also proven to be a good sport to relax you.
Everyone can swim, it’s a natural instinct but obviously if you’re not confident stick to the shallow water. If you haven’t been swimming in a while start off with an achievable goal like ten lengths of the pool for your first session with only the one rest stop half way through. Try to go at least twice a week and add two more lengths each time you go. Before you know it you’ll have built up your endurance levels, be generally fitter and feel more toned.
Swimming is a great summer sport because on a hot summers day the there’s nothing quite like the thought of jumping into a large cool pool of water. Most towns and cities will have public swimming pools that aren’t too expensive and easy to get to.
Cycling
Cycling is another great cheap sport anyone can try for the summer months. Like swimming, most of us learn to ride a bike when we’re kids and never bother to get on a bike once we’ve got our drivers license. If you’re new to cycling you’re not going to want to rush out to buy a brand new bike but if you ask around your friends and family you’re bound to know someone who has one that you could borrow for a while. Once you’ve got used to the idea it’s easy to pick up a cheap bike online.
It’s very important to remember your safety when it comes cycling, even if you’re not intending to ride very fast it’s imperative you have a helmet and safety pads. It’s also a good idea to invest in a good pair of sunglasses if you’re cycling in the summer, these will not only keep the sun out your eyes but they’ll also keep any bugs out too. Don’t forget your water; it’s very easy to get dehydrated when you’re out for a ride so make sure you’ve got plenty to drink.
Cycling is another great cardiovascular sport which means it’s great for keeping your heart in shape and improving your overall fitness levels. Once you’ve invested in your bike it’s going to be free to ride it and with a little investigation you’re sure to find some great local parks and areas of natural beauty you can ride in.
Running
For most of us the idea of running fills us with dread but it’s the cheapest and easiest sport you can try to get in shape. When the summer weather kicks in it can be a great way to get out in the evenings and unwind after a stressful day in the office. All you need is a good pair of running shoes, if they’re too lose or too small they’re going give you blisters so make sure you’re wearing something that fits properly.
If you haven’t run since high school (or the last time you were about to miss the bus) then you need to start off slow and easy. For your first outing run for a minute then walk for a minute then the next day try running for two minutes and walking for one. If you’re making the effort to get out and run a few times a week it won’t be long before you’ve got a good level of stamina and you’re able to run without getting too out of breath.
Running is another great cardiovascular exercise that’s going to strengthen your heart and it’s also great for weight loss so long as you’re using it as part of a healthy balanced diet. It’s also something anyone can do anywhere, whether you’re just going for a run in your own neighborhood or round the local park, summer is a great time to start running.
One of the most important parts of a good workout is making sure you’ve got the right clothing, Surfdome are the online lifestyle store who stock everything from Animal clothing to Quiksilver
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