SUNS OUT, FUNS OUT: SUMMERTIME FITNESS
Summer is a great time to get outside and be active. It’s an easy time to get the benefits of the sun, get a little sweaty, and have fun with friends.
Beat the Heat
Work around the sun. Exercising outside during the summer is a great way to capitalize on the warmer weather and longer days.
Doing outdoor activities during peak sun hours (Noon-2PM) will expose you to the most heat and intensest UV rays. Consider doing your outdoor exercise either earlier or later in the day to avoid excessive dehydration and UV exposure.
Stay Hydrated
Whether you are biking, hiking, swimming, or just having a catch. Stay hydrated and make sure you have adequate vitamins and minerals. Using hydration packets like liquid IV or LMNTs are a great way to keep up on your fluid intake. Sweat contains many things we need like salt, potassium, and other minerals. Supplementing with hydration packets as well as water is essential for outdoor training.
This will allow you to get in a full workout without it being cut short by too much fluid loss from the scorching sun.
Activities Recommendations
If you are looking for some fun summer activities our trainers came up with a few of their favorites.
Take a Hike with Your Dog
Getting outside during the summer with your dog can seem daunting with the heat. It is best to avoid the mid day heat, the same way humans do.
Hiking trails are another great option to get out with your dog. The shade gives you and your dog a break from the sun, and if your dog enjoys the water, you can pick a trail with a creek or lake for some added fun.
Fall Run Park off Rt 8 and Hartwood Acres are great options.
Bike Rides
Bike riding is a great way to get outside and enjoy the weather as well. It’s also a great low impact activity.
If you’re looking for a trail in Pittsburgh check out the Heritage trail. The Heritage trail is mainly on bike paths so you can stay off of the road.
A good start point is in Millvale Riverfront Park (just west of the 40th Street Bridge) and bike to the Point and back but there are many ways to hop on the trail.
Paddle-Boarding
Paddle boarding is a great way to get outside and stay active during the summer.
Benefits of paddle boarding include a low impact form of cardio, improved stability, core strength, coordination. Because you’re out in nature, paddle boarding may also help with mental health.
Pittsburgh offers various opportunities to paddle board including North Park Lake, 10.7 Marina, and Heinz Quay Boat Launch.
Travel slightly outside of Pittsburgh and you will find paddle opportunities at Raccoon Creek Park Beach, Moraine State Park, Keystone Park Beach, Paradise Beach, and Ohiopyle.
Let us know what your favorite summer activities are - what are the sneaky ways you add functional fitness to you/your family’s summer?