by Ronda Heard

Created on: October 12, 2008   Last Updated: October 20, 2008

It's summertime and you can't wait to get outside and soak up the sun. However, you shiver at the mere thought of . . . gulp . . . exercise! Well, fear not my friend. There is good news! Exercise doesn't have to be boring or tedious. In fact, it can be quite exhilarating and downright fun. Not convinced? Keep reading.

1. Swimming

The most obvious choice for a summer activity or exercise is swimming. Not only does it cool you off, but it also burns calories, increases endurance and tones the body. It is an excellent exercise for those individuals, who may have joint issues, haven't worked out in a while, who are older and/or overweight. If you like the idea of being in the water, but swimming isn't your thing or you just don't know how to swim, consider water aerobics.

2. Water Aerobics

Water aerobics is like regular aerobics in that the same movements that are done on dry land are done in the water (slightly modified, of course). Instead of using weights or bands for strength training, the water itself is used as resistance. There may also be equipment used such as aqua gloves (webbed gloves) that provide resistance to strengthen arms, an aqua jogging belt that strengthens abdominal muscles and aqua jogging shoes that strengthen and tone the legs. This equipment is optional and is usually provided by the facility where classes are held.

3. Walking

Walking is by far the easiest exercise to do for most people, and you don't have to walk three or four hours a day to reap its benefits. Perhaps you can't even walk for an hour; then start with 10 minutes. Eventually, you will be able to do a mile and more. Even taking a leisurely stroll around your neighborhood or along the beach will help increase your stamina and strengthen your heart.

4. Biking

Almost everyone can remember getting their first bicycle. From the thrill of riding without the training wheels to the white, plastic basket with the big daisy on the front to the cool, "chopper" handlebars, riding a bike was pure, unadulterated fun! It can be that way now also. Biking is one of the most effective cardiovascular exercises. It builds stamina and strengthens the body. If you've never learned to ride a two wheeler, an adult tricycle is an excellent alternative. There are even hand operated bicycles for the physically impaired. This makes cycling available to almost everyone.

5. Dancing

The wonderful thing about dancing is, it's so much fun you won't even think of it as "exercise", yet you will definitely get a workout. Whether you throw on your favorite CD and bust a move freestyle or you join a group learning to Boot Scoot, dancing will create a strong, toned body. If you don't think you can dance or you've always wanted to learn, check with the local dance studios, universities and recreation center(s) in your area. They can provide you with information on where to take lessons or offer actual dance lessons.

6. Skating: In-line and Old School Four Wheelers

Skating has been a popular summertime activity for decades. Not only is it a great full body workout, it is also fun and something the entire family can participate in and enjoy. It provides hours of entertainment and strengthens the core abdominal muscles as well as the lower body.

These are just a few summertime activities/exercises that can get you out and about and on the way to having a healthy, strong body.

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