Summer Workouts

Written by Shoshana Pritzker Monday, 17 May 2010 16:00

June 08, 2009

You've been working hard all Spring to build that beach ready body, why not take advantage of the hot summer sun and get outdoors for your workout. With so many cost-effective options, there's no reason to spend any money at all.  Walking, swimming, running, and even rock climbing are all totally free.  So what's stopping you?!  Get your butt in gear and get on the move.

Urban Pilates

Looking for a Pilates spot in NY?  Every Tuesday, from the first week in July through the last in August, as many as 80 people gather on the boardwalk of the Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park/Brooklyn Bridge Park for a free weekly Pilates mat class.  Participants range in ages and fitness level so even the newest of newbies should feel comfortable.  There's only a limited number of rental mats, so BYO mat is ideal.  This outside workout and waterfront location facilitates a deeper understanding and love for Pilates beyond what you find at your typical indoor class.  Give it a try, it's free.  I can guarantee you'll be signing up for more once summer is over!

A Stroll in the Park

The lack of a treadmill or the fact that the gym is closed is no excuse to miss a good cardio workout.  All you need is a pair of good walking/running shoes and a comfy pair of socks.  An early morning fast-paced walk will get your heartrate going while you get to enjoy the sunrise.  Be sure you're walking fast enough to break a good quality sweat.  You could even toss in some 2 minute running intervals for an even greater calorie burning workout. Once it's over, you can sit and relax while having a healthy breakfast and reading the morning paper...all before the rest of the world is even up and running.  Tip: take your walk to the beach where it's much more difficult to walk in the sand.  The intensity of your workout will skyrocket!

Cycling

Just because your spin class is taught indoors on a small spin bike doesn't mean you won't get a killer workout from your basic outdoor bicycle.  This is something you can get the whole family involved in.  Break out the rusty, dusty bike and go for a spin.  Just 30 minutes to your destination and back will burn anywhere from 500-700 calories.  Not to mention the time spent with family enjoying the local scenery.

Inline Skating

Rollerblading (or Inline Skating) is one of the best outdoor cardiovascular exercises to boot.  It's a killer leg workout and helps build core strength while working on balance and posture.  You can't forget how hot you'll look in your workout gear and skating boots (these things show off the calves quite nicely!).  Just be sure you're well versed in using the break pads on your skates before skating near busy highways and roads.  You could always use a helmet and knee/elbow pads, lol!

Whatever your outdoor workout of choice may be, just be sure you're outside enjoying the nice weather before it's too late.  This past weekend I took my puppy out for a long fast-paced walk by the waterfront.  It's beautiful and the sun is shining so I was able to break a sweat and enjoy some time with my puppy.