by Elizabeth Kelly

Created on: October 15, 2008   Last Updated: November 16, 2008

In the summertime, it can seem like the whole world is on vacation. It's hard to slave away on a treadmill at the gym when the sun is shining and your friends are out having fun. Why stay cooped up in a stuffy fitness center? Swap that gym towel for a beach towel and hit the sunny outdoors. Pick any one of these 6 activities for a workout that's so enjoyable it will feel like a mini getaway.

Swimming

It's a no-brainer to want to hit the water when the day is sultry, and the best part is toning your whole body while keeping cool at the same time. You can swim laps at a local pool if you're extra-motivated, but it's just as good a workout to swim with friends at the lake or the beach. Pack up some healthy snacks and meet your girlfriends for a slimming swimming session.

Rollerblading

You've seen the tan girls in bikinis rollerblading around California on TV. Did you notice what they have in common? Trim, toned bodies. That's because inline skating is not only aerobic activity, but it strengthens your thighs, your calves and your buttocks. Even your abs get in on the fun: you have to contract them to keep your balance properly. Throw on some shorts, grab your iPod, and skate your way to an L.A. body.

Bicycling

You've logged hours and hours on the stationary bike at the gym. Why not try some real biking for a change? The air is better, the scenery actually changes, and you'll even get a better workout with real resistance in the form of hills and curves. Next time you need to run a quick errand, grab the bike instead. Be sure and stay hydrated, and the sweat will help flush out those nasty toxins as a bonus.

Canoeing/Kayaking

Some of the best water workouts take place without even getting in the water. That's not to say you won't get wet, though. Rowing a boat takes tremendous upper body strength that works muscles in your arms and shoulders. You'll feel the burn when you get home, but while you're on the water you'll be focused on the scenery and the sunshine.

Diving/Snorkeling

Diving is the type of thing most people seem to only think of doing on vacation, but the fact is, you can do it close to home too. If you have experience underwater, take your equipment along to the beach or the lake. If you're a first-timer, check the phone book for an instructor or sign up for a class. You'll be so busy looking at all the sights below the surface, you'll never notice the exercise that comes along with it.

Outdoor Games

Summer workouts definitely don't have to be a solo activity. Next time you're at the beach, join a game of volleyball. No beach in sight in your landlocked locale? Put together a neighborhood frisbee game at a nearby park. When was the last time you played freeze tag? Make a big pitcher of raspberry iced tea and invite your friends over to play those childhood games that used to wear you out so thoroughly as a kid.

If you're still inside, what are you waiting for? Log off, grab a water bottle and hit the outdoors. You'll soon have a body as hot as the temperature!

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