The summer months bring so many amazing opportunities to get outdoors and be active. After a long winter, the snow in the streets and trails is replaced with the buzz of runners, rollerbladers and cyclists.
The options for exercising seem endless and the motivation to get out and move your body comes natural after being cooped up inside for so many months.
It can be easy though, to fall out of your summer workout routine when you set off to the cottage for a long weekend, or a week’s vacation. If you’re lucky enough to own a cottage or are able to visit one this summer, relaxation and indulgence can take the place of routine and balance. Sometimes we forget the endless list of activities that a cottage can offer.
Here are a few ideas to keep you moving at the cottage this summer:
- Gardening not only contributes to the overall look of a cottage, but it is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while being active. Pick up a bunch of your favourite flowers and herb seeds on your next trip to the cottage and get planting!
- The cottage is an amazing place to clear your head of the stresses and worries that come from your everyday life. Wake up as the sun rises one morning and practice a few Yoga and Pilates moves on the front deck. Take mental notes during your next BODYFLOW class and memorize some of the key poses and movements so you can FLOW at the cottage without direction. The view will be spectacular to top it off.
- Discover ‘off the beaten track’ trails and go for a run. We are so blessed to live in a Country with stunning scenery; whether you are in the flat, tree-filled lands of Ontario, or surrounded by mountains in British Columbia, finding a good trail at the cottage will make your run fun.
- No matter what, there is always something that needs to be done at the cottage. Having a large supply of chopped wood for the bonfire or fireplace is key. Replenish your stock by helping chop wood.
- Get wet! Take advantage of your proximity to water and go for a swim or try water skiing or wakeboarding. Your adrenaline will be pumping after a good water ski which will help keep you energized for the rest of the day.
- Encourage a friend or family member to join you. Working out with someone will help keep you motivated; you can push each other to do that little bit extra.
Your challenge this summer is to enjoy some rest and relaxation while at the cottage, but take an hour every day to do some good for your body. Sweating from the humidity isn’t enough. Try something you’ve never done before, you may just surprise yourself.
Photos courtesy of March Seven Photography by Mike Barry – http://m7p.ca
