The time we spend vacationing in the summer months sometimes make it difficult to keep to our regular physical activity schedule. The good news is that summer holidays may be the perfect time to try something different. Here are eight new ideas.
At the beach
Water and sandy terrain are the perfect mix for a fun-filled active day.
Organize a game Ultimate frisbee, water polo and beach soccer are all active games that require minimal equipment. Practice individual skills, kick or toss a ball. Travelling with a group? Organize a game with fellow beach goers. Unsure of how to play a game? Search the rules at sportsknowhow.com.
Walk the sand Enjoy the waterfront and feel the challenge of walking in sand. Want more of a workout? Move away from the flat water's edge and hike the sand dunes. Be sure to wear proper shoes to avoid injury.
Take a swim Navigating the waters in lakes, rivers or the ocean is more challenging than at your local community pool. Try varying your strokes between freestyle and breast stroke. With a group of strong swimmers, head out to deeper water and tread while playing a game of monkey in the middle. Stay safe: at lakes or on fast-moving rivers, swim in buoy marked areas parallel to the shoreline; at the ocean, keep the seashore in sight at all times.
At the cottage
Enjoy the varied environment. Consider the cottage your outdoor playground.
Take a hike Pack a healthy snack, some water and hike a local trail. If you're a beginner, try smaller local trails. More advanced? Try an all-day hike with drop-out options, where you can return to your car easily if you need to. Have you explored Canada's beautiful National Parks trails? http://www.canadatrails.ca/hiking
Go for a paddle Kayak, canoe or row to explore local waters. Are you an advanced paddler? Consider entering a local regatta, and then work more activity into your day by training for event day.
Pedal Get on a bike, a trike or a paddle boat and enjoy the scenery.
Sightseeing
No matter where you go, sightseeing offers a variety of ways to stay active.
Take an active city tour Many cities offer walking or biking tours to see the local sites. Alternatively, find a traditional food market and go up and down the aisles, or take a brisk walk down a boardwalk.
Reach for the top Towers, church steeples and the like in tourist locations provide great opportunities for climbing stairs. Take advantage!
Join a local event Set your vacation around an activity you would like to try. Include your friends, create a team and register for a golf or tennis tournament in the city or locale you're visiting. Most community events will have recreational, intermediate and competitive levels. Alternatively, maybe you'd like to run a half marathon in Hawaii or climb a mountain peak in Switzerland.
Whatever you do this summer, try to stay active at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.
Before starting a physical activity program, be sure to speak to your healthcare provider.
This physical activity column was written by a certified personal trainer and fitness instructor and reviewed by Foundation experts.
Posted: August 2009
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