by Laura Leigh Fields

Warm weather is the perfect excuse to get outside and enjoy the splendor of the outdoors. Better still you can run, jump, and play like you did when you were a child. There are many summer activities that are not only fun, but also creative ways to get that much-needed exercise in.

There are a variety of events that you can get involved in that will tone your body and just make you feel better. You can get your blood pumping and your body moving by participating in one of these hot summer workouts — or discover one on your own. The beauty of it is that although you’ll get a workout, there really is little work involved.

Enjoy the water!

A classic summer tradition is one that involves cooling off in a pool. There are numerous water sports that you can participate in and enjoy this summer. Go for a swim, take out a canoe or paddleboat, ride a wave runner, or learn how to water-ski. Any of these activities will help give your body the exercise it needs.

Have some fun on wheels.

Strengthen those legs by getting on something with wheels. Strap on some roller-blades or skates, hop on a skateboard or take a ride on your bicycle. You can enjoy the scenery and keep your body moving at the same time.

Get to work!

Working is more than your 9-5 job. There are many things that you can do around the house that can count as a workout, even though they may be considered chores. Physical labor can tone the body in many ways, plus you will get a sense of accomplishment and pride when things look great. Work in a garden or do yardwork on a regular basis. Maintaining a beautiful yard can be very gratifying exercise.

Join in on some athletics.

Sports are a terrific way to work out in the summertime. You can play basketball, football, soccer, golf or any sport your heart desires. You can join a recreation league or play with friends just for fun. Regardless of how you do it, you can’t go wrong with sports.

Go bargain hunting!

Let’s face it, shopping is fun, and summer offers some great second-hand deals. Why not incorporate exercise and shopping? You can do this by walking around local malls or shopping at flea markets. Because there are many booths or shops to choose from, you will certainly get a lot of walking in. Block yard sales also keep you walking, combing the street for deals. Check your local paper for the big sales.

Pretend you are training for the Olympics.

There are lots of fun Olympic activities you can do at home without having to travel to a faraway foreign city. Go to the local track and run a few laps. Invest in an exercise mat and tumble or practice rolling around. Go to the playground and walk on the mini balance beams or hang from the monkey bars. Before you know it, you will be living an Olympic dream — if only in your own mind.

When it comes to exercise, the only limit is what you choose not to do. There is a whole world of fun out there waiting to be explored. Get out there and develop a hot summer workout that you can’t live without. You will soon find that the only problem is that summer doesn’t last nearly long enough.