The Secret to Staying in Shape Over the Summer

Many students establish effective exercise routines during the school year. Just because summer break is in full swing doesn’t mean that those routines should go by the wayside. It may be difficult to replicate those activities at home, in another environment, but it’s beautiful outside and progress should be maintained.

Get Gear

Fraternity and sorority athletes can stay motivated during the summer with fashionable, practical workout gear. New workout gear makes exercising feel more fun, and less like work. Select sporty styles made from lightweight, breathable fabric. The right accessories also enhance athletes’ performance and comfort on the go. Meet fitness goals with new gear, such as water bottles, drawstring backpacks, headbands, armbands, MP3 players, headphones, hats, shoes, etc.

Be Safe

Working up a sweat is beneficial to the body, but exercising outside in especially hot weather can be hazardous to health, since heat stress and heat stroke are very real dangers. To stay hydrated, drink fluids before, during, and after workouts. Caffeine dehydrates, on the other hand, so avoid it. While temperatures are up during the summer, the sun is less harsh during the morning and evening hours, so schedule workouts then. Engaging in physical activity during the day is still possible, and often necessary. Routines can be adjusted; lower impact variations are preferable. Natural surroundings are often the most enjoyable, but particularly high temperatures mean it’s time to take activities indoors.

Schedule and Socialize

College workout buddies and team members can’t always motivate one another during the summer. Set up a regular workout schedule with family members or hometown friends; it’s harder to slack off when there are obligations that must be fulfilled. Exercising with others can simply be more fun as well, especially when it brings people together who are separated during the school year. Be a joiner; try something different and meet new people by signing up for summer events that get attendees moving, such as classes, races, and retreats.

On Vacation

Good fitness habits don’t have to be interrupted while on vacation. When traveling, choose accommodations that offer gym and pool amenities. Research nearby studios and make arrangements to attend exercise classes.  Another option is to soak up the local flavor and learn something new at the same time while on a trip. Different cultures specialize in different dances, sports, and martial arts; learn from the best while abroad. Sightseeing can also be healthy, as long as bus tours are skipped in favor of getting from place to place on foot.

Mix It Up

It’s possible to play tourist even at home. Students returning for the summer can get reacquainted with their hometowns and get fit at the same time by walking, biking, and hiking to local landmarks. At home or away, embrace unique environments by maintaining a sense of adventure. For example, go sailing at the lake, go surfing at the beach, and go rock climbing in the cliffs. Even regular routines can take on new life when practiced outdoors; exposure to a different landscape or backdrop adds variety to workouts.