5 Summer Habits That Keep Me Fit
As someone who loves to stay active and healthy, especially during the vibrant summer months, I’ve adopted several habits that are not only enjoyable but also incredibly effective in maintaining my fitness.
We’re all familiar with the usual advice: eat well, drink plenty of water, exercise, and get enough sleep.
However, I want to share five additional habits that have become my secret weapons in staying fit during the summer.
Summer Habits That Keep Me Fit
1. Incorporating Daily Walks
Walking is an underrated form of exercise, and I’ve made it a part of my daily routine.
It might surprise you, but adding just one walk each day can significantly increase your caloric burn—by about 200 calories on those days.
For me, walking is the ultimate weight loss tool. It doesn’t trigger food cravings like more intense cardio might, and it’s gentle on the joints.
Moreover, it’s a perfect activity to enjoy with family, friends, or even your pets. Whether pushing a stroller or just strolling through the park, walking is my go-to for a relaxed yet effective workout.
2. Engaging in Playful Activities with Kids
Summer is a fantastic time to get outdoors and play.
Whether it’s throwing a ball, playing tag, dancing, or jumping on a trampoline, these activities are not just fun—they’re great workouts, too.
Engaging in these playful exercises helps increase your Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT), which boosts your overall calorie burn and benefits your cardiovascular health.
Just short sessions scattered throughout the day can significantly enhance your fitness level, proving that keeping up with the kids (or even a playful dog) can be your secret fitness weapon.
3. Keeping Workout Clothes Ready
I’ve found that having an inviting set of workout clothes at the ready can make all the difference.
I keep stylish, comfortable fitness wear accessible so I can slip into them easily. This simple step eliminates barriers to working out and helps integrate physical activity into my daily routine.
Whether I’m running errands or planning a gym session, wearing my fitness gear motivates me to move more throughout the day, or start quick workout anytime.
4. Smart Grocery Shopping
My diet plays a huge role in my fitness regime. To stay on track, I’ve adjusted how I shop for groceries.
I avoid buying sweet snacks, opting instead for dark chocolate, and a variety of fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
I also prefer ordering groceries online to prevent impulse purchases. When snack cravings do hit, I have healthy options at my fingertips, ensuring that my snacking habits are healthy and straightforward.
5. Strategic Comfort Food
Contrary to what you might think, I keep certain “junk” foods in my freezer—like vegan meat substitutes and ready-made Asian dishes.
These aren’t everyday foods but having them on hand for those occasional comfort food cravings is key.
When I indulge, I balance it by filling a third to half of my plate with vegetables, also kept ready in the freezer.
This approach satisfies my cravings while keeping things lower in calories, more cost-effective, and richer in vitamins and fiber than running to the fast food restaurant.
These five habits have revolutionized the way I approach fitness during the summer. They keep me active, ensure I eat well, and most importantly, allow me to enjoy every sunny day to the fullest while staying healthy.
Remember, the key to fitness is not just in the grand gestures but in the small, everyday decisions we make. So, take that extra walk, play a little more, and treat yourself wisely—your body will thank you for it.
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