Exercise during the summer has unique benefits and challenges, not the least of which is the ability to be outside a good part of the time. This is one of the takeaways of why we do so well as humans exercising in sunlight. This is one habit we recommend you find a way to integrate all year long. Today. let's take a comprehensive look at summer exercise and its benefits:
Benefits of Summer Exercise Include...
Improved Mood and Mental Health:
Sunlight Exposure: Increases serotonin levels, which can enhance mood and reduce stress and anxiety. This is one of the reasons why so many mental health problems become much more problematic when the days become shorter once again. Remember, daily sunlight exposure year round is crucial to mental and physical health.
Vitamin D: Boosts your immune system and has been linked to improved mood. The benefits of Vitamin D are enormous including company mitigating infection and quite likely a multitude of other diseases. Enhanced Physical Fitness:
Diverse Activities: Opportunities for varied outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, cycling, and running. Pick what you like the most, mix it up, above all have some fun.
Weight Management: Increased physical activity can help with weight loss or maintenance. The key though is still to avoid excess calories because weight loss depends upon calorie reduction plus adequate physical activity. Cardiovascular Health:
Heart Health: Regular exercise strengthens the heart and improves circulation. This is well known. Plan now what you're gonna do come this fall and winter and you'll be far healthier and happier.
Blood Pressure: Physical activity can help to manage blood pressure. If you do have blood pressure issues especially with kidney disease be very careful with "magic" drinks, especially dietary supplements with electrolytes. Also energy drinks with stimulants can be dangerous so be careful. And as always, we advocate you ditch all plastics and cans and cary your own glass or steel bottle of filtered water Social Benefits:
Group Activities: Summer is a great time for team sports or group exercise classes, which can improve social interaction and motivation. Don't be afraid to experiment, choose what you like with guidance from your Physician.
