Summer is here. To me summer means two things: I want to spend every free second outside and I'm going to be wearing things like shorts, bathing suits, tank tops and sundresses while I do it.
So how do I keep bikini ready and spend time outside? I make my own outdoor bootcamp.
Follow these easy steps and you too can stay in your best shape ever while spending time soaking up the delicious summer weather.
Step 1: Recruit Some Friends
Working out with a buddy or two always helps me push myself harder—there's no slacking off when people are watching. It also means you can take turns bringing after workout snacks and being the "drill sergeant" who tracks the reps and time while you exercise.A fun outdoor workout is also a great, healthy alternative to fattening happy hours or BBQ. Plus working out with buddies will help keep you from flaking on your workouts—a huge bonus since hotter weather can make you feel sluggish and lazy.
Step 2: Make a Schedule
Summer weather is beautiful, but it's also hot. Unless you want to do a Bikram bootcamp I recommend that you pick a time that's in the morning or evening when it's cooler. Exercising when you're hot is harder—and it can also be dangerous—so make sure to stay properly hydrated and to listen to your body to avoid overheating.It also helps to pick a regular time to workout so that it's in your schedule—picking a schedule will help you and your buddies to help you create a plan and then stick to it.
Step 3: Scout a Location
Parks make awesome outdoor gyms— that playground is the perfect place to do outdoor workouts using the bars and steps as equipment. Try an outdoor workout routine like this "Playground Fitness Routine"— playgrounds aren't just good for kids! Hills and stairs also make great fitness obstacles for outdoor training.
Step 4: Find Inspiration
We have over 200 totally free exercise routines— many of which can be adapted for use outdoors.Try this routine we created for our team: Team Exercise.com Bootcamp
You can also do a "round robin" and take turns as the drill sergeant suggesting an exercise for 30 to 60 second blocks to create a circuit—just remember to alternate body parts (legs, arms, abs...).
Look for inspiration in our exercise video library and write down your favorites or bookmark them to view them on your smartphone.
Step 5: Grab Some Equipment
Light hand weights, jump ropes, beach blankets—grab whatever you have lying around to spice up your outdoor workouts.
Step 6: Have Fun
Switching up where your workout will keep you and your muscles from getting bored.
Stay in shape—sign up for a fitness class.