Summer is upon us; endless days of sunshine, fun and frolic. It is the time of the year when we bust out our swimming costumes, shorts and cool summer gear! When we swim, cycle and hike to our heart’s content. Summer is fun!

It is also the time of the year many of us are in a panic because it is swimsuit season and we have been less than stellar at our workout regime in the winter; add to that the endless summer time barbecues and parties, and you have a fitness dilemma on your hands.

All the gorging ans parties also make it tough to stay healthy and at your best. Although there are tons of fitness courses and classes now days, many people are confused about what to do and where to begin and about how to stay healthy in the sometimes intense heat. If you have kids, then it is probably break time for them as well and the days get long and hectic. We have rounded up some great tips for you to stay healthy this summer.

Take it outside

Summer time is the perfect time to indulge in all those activities the cold, long winters forbid you from doing. Enjoy the great outdoors in all its glory. Go on take a walk, a run, go for a swim, try the  trekking route you always wanted to venture on and more. Being outdoors and amongst nature is also a great stress buster and keeps you calmer and more engaged. Get some much needed sun and enjoy what your surroundings have to offer.

Make it a family affair

Sunny and beautiful days are perfect for some family time. But that does mean you have to compromise on your fitness routine. Venture out with your partner and your kids and do fun activities together. You don’t have to be sitting and watching TV at home for some quality family time. Play a sport and some active games, go for a hike, have a picnic and the like. It will keep you up and moving and inculcate good habits in the others as well.

Try a new class

When the sun is shining and the birds are chirping, we are inclined to be more active and alert, unlike those gloomy winter days and rainy days when all you feel like doing is curling up in bed in your favourite pyjamas. It is a good time to try new fitness courses or class at the gym you always were curious about and but never got around to.

Stay well hydrated

Summer temperatures and the intense sunshine can take quite a toll on you and you will lose a lot of hydration due to more sweating as well. Make sure you drink plenty of water when indulging in physical activities and find out what the recommended amount is for your weight and activity level.

Dehydration not only leads to fatigue but can be the cause of a whole host of health issues with your skin, eyes and more. Avoid high calorie drinks like sodas, juices and sugary drink mixes and alcohol. You can make your water more interesting by adding fresh fruit slices, lemon and cucumber slices etc. and chilling it.

Be careful of the sun

Limit your exposure to direct sunlight by heading out during times of the day when it isn’t as harsh. This will well help you keep sun burns and strokes, eye discomfort and dehydration and bay. Also always remember to apply sunscreen for protection against UVA and UVB rays.

Author Bio:

Aaron Somner is a personal trainer with his own set up and offers various fitness courses like boot camps and spinning in the summer.  A sports enthusiast, you will often find him on the tennis courts or playing a game of football in his spare time.