Summer is the season of sunshine, longer days, and a natural boost in motivation to get active. Whether you're hitting the beach, exploring the outdoors, or just trying to stay on track with your wellness goals, summer offers a golden opportunity to revamp your fitness routine. But with rising temps and busy schedules, it’s important to be smart about how you move. Here’s how to make the most of summer fitness—safely, effectively, and enjoyably.
Midday sun can be intense, so consider shifting your workouts to the cooler parts of the day. Early mornings and late evenings not only offer more comfortable temperatures but also quieter trails, parks, or sidewalks. Bonus: there’s something extra peaceful about greeting the day with a walk, run, or yoga flow under a sunrise sky.
Sweating more means needing more fluids. Hydrate before, during, and after your workouts. Add a pinch of salt or a splash of electrolyte drink if you’re sweating heavily or exercising for over an hour. Fruits like watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers can also help keep you hydrated.
Summer is a great time to take your fitness routine outdoors. Think hiking, paddleboarding, biking, or outdoor bootcamps. Just remember to wear sunscreen, a hat, and breathable clothing. Keep an eye on the heat index and don’t push too hard when it's extra hot—there’s no shame in modifying or moving your workout indoors.
Summer schedules can be unpredictable, so stay flexible and have a few go-to workouts you can do anywhere. A quick bodyweight circuit, swim session, or 20-minute HIIT workout can do the trick when time is tight. Changing up your routine also helps prevent boredom and keeps your body guessing.
Take advantage of the season to connect with others. Join a group hike, meet friends for a walk, or sign up for a summer fitness challenge. Exercising with others can boost accountability and turn your workout into a fun event you look forward to.
The heat can make physical exertion feel harder than usual. It’s okay to scale back intensity or take rest days when needed. Fitness is a long game—pushing too hard in hot weather can set you back more than it moves you forward.
Summer fitness doesn’t have to be extreme to be effective. The key is consistency, creativity, and self-care. Embrace the season’s energy, stay safe, and make movement something you enjoy—not something you endure.
Looking for summer workout classes, water aerobics, or indoor training options? Baptist Health/ Milestone Wellness Center has you covered all season long. Come sweat smart with us this summer!