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4 Best Exercises for Summer

Any time of the year is a good time to think about getting in shape! But when summer rolls around, people are even more excited about moving their bodies and getting toned and fit. When the weather is bright and sunny, it’s a great excuse to find pool-related activities, outdoor strengthening exercises or poses you can stretch into inside in the AC! Before you dive into a workout, however, remember to always warm-up beforehand so your muscles aren’t stiff. It’s also good to make sure you have all the equipment you need before you get started and to plan a cool-down at the end of your workout. Here are 4 great exercises that you can do on your own this summer.

Push-ups

Push-ups are easy to do anywhere – inside on a mat or outdoors by the pool – and they are one of the most classic exercises for toning the upper body and getting your arms and shoulders in shape. And that’s not all! They also use your core muscles so you are working on toning and flattening your stomach at the same time. Try starting with 1-2 sets of 10 push-ups and building up from there.

Plank Pose

The plank pose is a great alternative to crunches and sit-ups because they put less pressure on the spine and are less likely to cause injury. Plus, they are actually more effective at building a tight core. You have to hold and stabilize the spine so it works all of the tiny muscles in your back and abs. To start with a basic plank, lie flat on your stomach with your hands shoulder-width apart and then press yourself up as though you’re doing a push-up. Make sure your shoulders are directly over your hands and hold yourself there for 30 seconds. Try building up in time as you get stronger.

Ab Bikes

This is a great exercise because it works out your full body. Get into a pushup pose and then bring one knee into your chest and then step it back out and do the same with the other knee. Do this back and forth 30 times as though you are riding a bicycle. Stop and rest and repeat again if you can. It engages your abs, shoulders, biceps and leg muscles and will help you get toned in no time!

Treading Water

Treading water is a great, low-impact exercise that gets your whole body in shape and is also great for your heart. And it’s fun! Hop in the pool and get to a level where your toes barely reach the ground and simply move your hands and legs in order to stay afloat. Do this for 20 minutes to start or at least until you feel yourself getting tired. Don’t overexert yourself and if you feel out of breath or tired, move to an area where you can stand and take a breather. Also, make sure to use adequate sunblock while you’re outside!

Be Careful

Remember, always be careful when doing unsupervised exercises at home. Do not do any exercise that causes pain or could lead to injury. If you’re not sure you can do an exercise correctly, it’s best to have a professional demonstrate before trying to do them on your own. Also, if you’re out of shape, it’s best to ease yourself into an exercise regimen – do a small number of reps and take frequent breaks as you build up your stamina and strength.

Bee Healthy Clinics are your partners in remaining accountable to your healthy weight loss goals! Come sign up with us or schedule your next check-in appointment so we can help you stay on track.

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