It always takes me a while to get used to the lazy days of summer but once I've made the transition, it's amazing how little one can bring themselves to accomplish over the course of a few free days. My mom always used to remark how the more free time we have, the lazier we become. It really does take some serious self-motivation to find a balance between relaxing and staying active over the summer months.
As a youngster, getting back into dance classes in September was sometimes quite a struggle. In fact, the older I got, the more obvious this struggle became. When I was dancing out of high school, I finally realized the importance of finding a balance between rest and activity when on holidays so that the return to the regular intensity of activity was not only easy, but also could also be done in a safer way without as much risk of injury. Today, as an adult and a teacher, I think it is just as important for me to take that initiative over the summer as it is for my students. With that being said, I am all for finding enjoyable ways to be active and healthy and to take advantage of the summer weather. Here are some of my favorite ways to avoid the September struggle:
Walking and hiking are a great way to stay in shape. Get together with a friend, take your dog with you, or make a playlist of your favorite songs and take off on your own. If you are able to go on a hiking trail, the level of incline or any stairs will obviously take your workout to the next level. If you only have access to a flat area, go out for at least an hour to get most out of it. When it is so nice out, try to find times in your day when you have to run errands and make yourself walk to do them. You'll return home feeling energized and deserving of a nice cold drink.
Cycling is always a great workout and is easy enough to vary in intensity. One of the reasons that many people will choose biking over running for their cardio is because it eliminates a lot of impact on the joints that can cause hip, knee and ankle pain. Experiment with hills, speed and the gears that you use. Again, opt to ride your bike if you have errands to run or to get your self to the beach or a friend's place.
Swimming is frequently used as a complimentary training tool for dancers since, like cycling, it does not put any impact on the joints and does not tend to build bulky muscles. Doing a few laps will get your heart rate up and being in the water is so great for cooling off on a hot day.
I could go on and on with ways to stay fit over the summer. Tennis, volleyball, soccer, in-line skating, the list is endless. What is important is that you make the effort to participate in one of these activities 4 to 5 times a week. When you're on your down time and are watching movies or TV, don't forget how easy it is to gently strengthen your muscles by doing simple hamstring bridges, back lifts, abdominal crunches, rises and releves. Don't forget about flexibility! If you are not warm, hold any stretches for no more than 20 seconds. If you have been active and your muscles are nice and warm, hold your stretch for more than 30 seconds.
The weekend weather promises to be beautiful and I intend to make the most of the walking paths in my neighborhood. Hopefully, you'll find ways to get moving and have fun. Remember, the more active you are, the more deserving you will feel of all the indulgences that comes along with vacation time. Enjoy!
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