7 Simple Tips for Staying Active During Busy Summers
By Ryn Tucker
Summer is my favorite season. Since I’m always cold, I appreciate the warmer days that can be relaxing, but are most often packed with fun. We’re busy with vacations, family gatherings, weekend trips, and long sunny days full of possibility. But with our calendars so crowded, it’s easy to let fitness routines slide. The good news? Staying active during a busy summer doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little creativity and flexibility in your schedule, you can keep moving and feel your best all season long. Here are 7 tips to help you stay active when your summer schedule is packed:
1. Turn Activities into Workouts
Make the most of summer events by turning them into movement opportunities. Walking tours on vacation, beach volleyball with friends, hiking at a local park, or even dancing at a barbecue all count. If it’s really hot, try swimming or water sports. I love paddle boarding on a hot day. It can be a great workout! Take advantage of the warm weather and get moving.
2. Plan Mini Workouts
If you’re tight on time, aim for shorter sessions. A 10-minute HIIT workout, a quick bodyweight circuit, or a yoga flow are more effective than doing nothing. Keep moving no matter how much time you have. Consistency matters more than duration.
3. Make It a Family Affair
Do you have more family hanging around this time of year? Include them or your friends in your active time. Bike rides, dance parties, sports, or playing outdoor games are all fun and active. You’ll not only get the exercise, but you will also make lasting memories.
4. Stay Flexible (Literally and Figuratively)
Summer schedules are unpredictable. Embrace flexibility by shifting your mindset: it’s okay if your workouts aren’t perfect. If you miss your usual routine, don’t punish yourself. Find another window in the day to move, stretch, or even just take the long way when walking. If all else fails, stretch in your bed before you fall asleep.
5. Use the Cooler, Quieter Hours
Try moving your workout to the early morning before the heat and busyness kick in. A sunrise walk or jog is a peaceful way to start the day, and can leave you feeling energized for everything else ahead. As a night owl, this can be tough for me. So if I am unable to exercise early, I at least take my dogs on a long night walk. I love it and my dogs sleep better. Win/win.
6. Pack Active Gear on Trips
If you’re traveling, toss some resistance bands or a jump rope into your suitcase. These take up almost no space and let you sneak in quick workouts anywhere. If there’s not a gym at my hotel, I can get pretty creative. I will throw a bath towel down as a mat in my room, grab my bands, or just do bodyweight work.
7. Set Seasonal Goals
If you still feel in a slump, give yourself a fun, short-term fitness goal. You could try a new steps-per-day goal for a month, complete a summer hiking challenge at your local hike spots, or set out to master a difficult yoga pose. Having a goal keeps you motivated and intentional even when things get hectic.
Final Thoughts:
Summer doesn’t have to be a normal season when it comes to movement. Stay active by being creative, adapting your lifestyle, and remembering that even small bursts of movement add up. Take advantage of the sunny weather and get outside. I suggest starting with an outdoor walk on Fitpass. You won’t regret it!
