How to Get Fit this Summer Without Stepping Foot into the Gym

For some of us, going to the gym just doesn't seem like a viable option. Maybe you don't like the idea of touching machinery that others have sweated all over, or maybe you simply don't enjoy working out. In some cases, the price of a gym membership can be completely off-putting. Whatever your reason might be for avoiding the gym, we totally get it. The gym isn't for everyone, that's for sure! This summer, you can still burn off some serious calories simply by engaging in your favorite hobbies. Here's an easy guide on how to get fit this summer without heading to the gym. Here's a hint: these include some fun outdoor activities that'll enhance your summer experience and will make for good Instagram and Snapchat selfies.

Surfing

Surf's up! Most of us picture fit and sun-kissed types who surf those righteous waves, and it's for a good reason. If you're heading to the beach this summer, you can rely on surfing as a great alternative to working out at the gym. That's because you'll burn off calories and build strength in your legs as you run to catch the waves. Surfing provides an awesome core workout, too. Since surfing requires you to hold your upper body forward in front of your legs, you're working out your abdominal area fairly rigorously. This aerobic exercise will keep you on your toes – literally. Paddling is an intense workout in itself, so surfing consistently over the summer will help you to get a true beach body. When you surf for an hour, you burn off roughly 400 to 500 calories. With these numbers, it might be time for you to invest in some sweet surf shorts and a surfboard.

Waterskiing

Interested in picking up an exciting new hobby that will help you burn off some calories? You'll probably love waterskiing. Although you are being pulled by a motor, it's still a sport that requires core and upper body strength. One of the greatest parts about waterskiing is that you'll burn up to 500 calories an hour while having fun. Who says staying in shape has to be painful and boring? Waterskiing is proof that you can stay buff while having a blast.

Hiking

This summer, you can easily enjoy some of the sights that your state has to offer by hiking at local parks or by seeking out new and unexplored territory. When you go hiking, make sure to bring a backpack with you to keep any bottled water, sunscreen, or protein bars close at hand. The act of hiking can burn off a total of 400 to 440 calories in an hour, so you can enjoy the captivating scenery while getting a good gym-free workout. A general rule of thumb is that the more you weigh, the more calories you'll burn off while hiking, as with many of the other excercies listed here. If you've been searching for a good way to start your workout routine without going to the gym, hiking is an excellent choice.

Swimming

This summer, you'll want to become friends with the neighbors who own a pool, because swimming is a great source of burning off calories. Did you know that you can burn an average of 500 to 700 calories while swimming? Of course, this mostly depends on how quickly you swim for, but you can enjoy the summer sun while swimming at a moderate pace as an alternative to working out at the gym. You can even hang out with your friends while you get your swim on. By swimming freestyle, you can tone your glutes, abs, and shoulders. Doesn't sound too shabby, does it?

Touring the City

Do you live near a major city? If you do, it's a good idea to take a tour of that city, especially if you've never been there. You can plan different adventures and places to visit, as long as they're all on foot. Of course, if you plan on touring places to eat in the city, you should aim for healthy options so that you don't defeat the purpose of walking in the city on foot. Some cities offer bikes that you can rent for the day as well, so you can enjoy your time sightseeing while cycling. If you mix up walking and cycling, you'll have a nice active day full of new adventure in an unexplored city. You might even meet some new people if that's something of interest to you. You can take the train home to relax and recuperate from your tour as well; just make sure to pack your headphones and have your favorite playlists ready to listen to on Spotify.

This summer, take full advantage of creating experiences and lasting memories by engaging in worthwhile physical activities. You'll be glad to be outdoors trying out a new hobby rather than sitting inside and watching television, although that certainly has its time and place. If the gym isn't your favorite place, then you're under no obligation to go. Luckily, going to the gym isn't the only way you can lose weight and build muscle. You can still obtain some solid abs and muscle definition by keeping yourself physically active with fun summer hobbies. Get out there and bask in the glow of the sun this summer while effortlessly achieving a more athletic body! You'll be proud of the results.