Summer is here and with it comes gatherings, BBQs, vacations, camping, outings, the Calgary Stampede, and more. During this season, it’s easy to let healthy habits slip while we’re out having fun. As important as it is to enjoy the sun and warm weather, it’s just as important to stay healthy and avoid putting our wellness on the backburner.
Whether you’re going for a walk outdoors or you continue to keep up with your exercise routine at our NW Calgary gym, you won’t regret maintaining your health and fitness in the summer. Here are some of our favourite tips to avoid overeating, incorporate fun outdoor activities, and maintain consistency throughout the year.
Tips for Healthy Eating During Summer
Barbecues, picnics, and festivals encourage long gatherings where food is central, leading to extra helpings. However, it’s important to eat healthy and not go overboard. While you should give yourself permission to enjoy, it’s all about balancing indulgence with nutritious choices to maintain well-being.
1. Plan Your Meals – Planning meals can help you avoid the temptation of overeating. Prepare a weekly menu that includes balanced meals with plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. By having a plan, you’re less likely to reach for unhealthy snacks.
2. Stay Hydrated – Often, we mistake thirst for hunger. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle and aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily. Infuse your water with fruits like lemon, berries, or mint for a refreshing twist.
3. Healthy Snacks – Stock up on healthy snacks such as fruits, nuts, yogurt, and vegetables with hummus. These options are not only nutritious but also keep you feeling full longer. Eat a small snack before you go to a gathering or event to avoid overindulging.
Embrace the Season With Fun Outdoor Activities
Summer is not just about overindulgence and battling temptations; it’s also a perfect time to embrace the outdoors and engage in fitness-focused activities. The warm, sunny days provide an ideal backdrop for a variety of enjoyable exercises:
4. Hiking – In Alberta, we are lucky to have the mountains as our backyard. Banff National Park offers an endless variety of hiking trails for all fitness levels. Enjoy breathtaking views while getting a great cardiovascular workout.
5. Cycling – Cycling is a fantastic way to explore your surroundings, boost your cardiovascular fitness, and tone your legs. Some of Calgary’s most popular and scenic biking trails include Glenmore Reservoir dam, Prince’s Island Park, and Bow River Pathway loop.
6. Tennis – Tennis is a fun outdoor sport to enjoy during the summer, offering a perfect combination of physical activity and social interaction under the sun. Whether you’re playing singles or doubles, tennis provides an excellent cardiovascular workout while enhancing agility, coordination, and endurance.
However, when rainy days or winter weather make outdoor play difficult, The Riverside Club offers a great solution with our indoor tennis facilities. Here, you can continue to hone your skills year-round, ensuring that your game remains sharp and you stay active regardless of the season.
With professional coaching and well-maintained courts, The Riverside Club is an ideal spot for tennis enthusiasts to pursue their passion indoors.
7. Gardening – Gardening is a surprisingly effective way to stay active. It involves various movements such as digging, planting, and weeding, which can help improve strength, flexibility, and endurance. Gardening is also known to have incredible mental health benefits.
Tips for Maintaining Long-Term Fitness
Maintaining fitness is crucial not just during the summer, but throughout the entire year. Regular exercise, balanced with a nutritious diet, helps manage weight, boost energy levels, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Here are some tips to help you make fitness a year-round commitment:
8. Create a Routine – Consistency is key to achieving and sustaining long-term health and well-being. Develop a routine that fits your schedule and stick to it. Include a mix of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
9. Rest and Recover – Don’t forget the importance of rest. Allow your body time to recover with adequate sleep and rest days in your fitness routine to prevent burnout and injuries.
10. Adapt and Adjust – Life can be unpredictable, so be flexible with your fitness plans. If you miss a workout, don’t get discouraged. Adjust your schedule and get back on track as soon as possible.
Staying fit during the summer is all about balance, enjoyment, and consistency. By adopting healthy eating habits, embracing fun outdoor activities, and maintaining a consistent routine, you can achieve your fitness goals and enjoy a healthier lifestyle all year round. So, get out there, soak up the sun, and make this summer your fittest one yet!
