Being physically active is one of the most important things you can do to improve your physical and mental health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says physical activity has immediate health benefits, such as better sleep and reduced stress and anxiety. Regular physical activity can also decrease depression and reduce your risk of obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer.
The key to staying active is finding the right activity or workout that fits your ability, schedule, and interests. Here are some creative ways to stay active while enjoying the outdoors this summer.
- Plant a garden. Gardening is an excellent form of exercise that involves squatting and bending down to tend to various plants, as well as lifting, reaching, and twisting to pull weeds.
- Enjoy the water. Beaches, pools, and lakes can help you enjoy physical activities while staying cool. You can walk on the beach or you can go swimming, paddle-boarding, kayaking, or canoeing. Dive in and get splashing!
- Go outside. Take the family or dog for a stroll around the neighborhood. Explore the great outdoors and go hiking in the woods or walking in a nearby park. Get the family together and rollerblade, skate, or go for a bicycle ride. Participating in these and other outside activities are a great way to help soak up some vitamin D and positively impact your overall health.
- Try an outdoor sport with friends and family. Sports that keep you moving, such as soccer, football, tennis, badminton, frisbee, or volleyball, provide an incredible workout and allow you to connect with other people. Sign up for a virtual race or join a local organized sports league, like softball or flag football. If you like golf, add more exercise to your game by ditching the cart and walking the course.
- Take a virtual exercise class. Bring a laptop or tablet outside during good weather and complete a virtual workout program on your patio or in your yard. Get the whole family outside to join you in the sunshine.
Summer is a great time to get outside, be more physically active, and enjoy many exciting seasonal activities and events. Remember to always put safety first and take the necessary precautions to make exercise outdoors safe, secure, and enjoyable. Always consult with your doctor before starting an exercise regimen and for modifications that best meet your individual needs. For more information on employee resources, please contact worklife@hq.dhs.gov