7 Fun Activities To Try Before Summer Ends

With so many outdoor activities, summer is a great time to workout in new and adventurous ways! These summer activities will strengthen you muscles, stoke your metabolism and burn fat almost effortlessly, since you'll be having so much fun!

Enjoy these sports with a family member or friend, soak up the sun and breathe in that beautiful fresh air.

Below is a list of summer sports that you may want to swap in for a traditional gym session. I’ve included a few tips that may be helpful for each activity. Have fun!

1. Rock climbing

This sport can seem intimidating at first, but all it takes is one climb to realize your inner strength. You'll feel empowered and ready to take on any obstacle!

Two tips:

1. Start slow and make sure you have supervision and guidance.

Don't feel like you have to conquer a major rock in order to get the benefits from this fun sport. Begin at an indoor wall or get a guide to take you up the rock to start.

2. Use your legs.

Though many think climbing strength is all in your arms, legs actually have much more power and when used correctly, will help get you to the top in no time.

2. Surfing

Surfing has it all: it's a killer upper body workout, provides the calming effects of the ocean and will get you natural blonde highlights. Who could ask for more? Not to mention, you're likely to run into good looking surfers, and could even have a dolphin sighting or catch an epic sunset.

Two tips:

1. Start with a soft-top board.

This is the easiest to learn on and will not feel uncomfortable when lying on your stomach.

2. Practice your popup before you hit the waves.

Lie face down with your hands directly under your shoulders. Press into your hands and jump your feet hip-width apart with one foot in front of the other. Repeat 10 times.

3. Beach volleyball

This workout is not only incredible cardio and serious toning from head to toe, it’s also a great opportunity to bond with your friends or family. It’s an amazing way to spend the day at the beach, while burning a high amount of calories and building strength.

Two tips:

1. Don’t feel intimidated … at all!

You don't need any specific background to start playing. With a little practice, you'll be able to pick it up.

2. Wear a sporty bathing suit.

As much as I love bikinis, you won't find me playing in them. There's nothing worse than feeling like you can’t move on the court. Wear a suit that's comfortable, flattering and adorable!

4. Tennis

Channel your inner Serena and hit that backhand like a pro. With the US Open almost here, it’s the perfect time to get out on the court and run around.

Two tips:

1. Ease into it.

Since tennis is usually performed on a hard court, your body may not be used to quick movements on such a firm surface. Try not to play too many days in a row, at least at first.

2. Treat yourself to a tennis skirt.

It’s important to have a place to put the extra tennis balls when you're serving. Not to mention, you'll look adorable on and off the court!

5. Stand-up paddleboarding

If you can get to a beach or lake this summer, you are bound to see a paddleboard rental shop. It’s the perfect sport for exploring your surroundings, toning your core and getting a tan. Need I say more?

Two tips:

1. Protect your skin from the sun.

You'll still get a great tan while wearing a strong sunscreen because the water is reflective and much more intense when you're out there. Be careful!

2. Bring water.

It’s easy to stay out paddling since it's such a blast and so picturesque. You'll be happy to have a backpack with a big water bottle. No need to get dehydrated.

6. Hiking

If you're close to mountains or big hills, definitely get up and explore. There's something very healing and grounding about being in the mountains. You'll also get a killer cardio workout as an added benefit!

Two tips:

1. Wear proper footwear.

You don't want to have any blisters at the end of the day, which only come from unfitted or uncomfortable footwear. If you are going to be doing many hikes, get yourself a pair of real hiking boots. If not, just make sure that your tennis shoes are comfortable and you're wearing socks that cover your ankles.

2. Avoid using your cell phone.

Take this time to enjoy nature and disconnect from the everyday rush. You can bring a phone for safety purposes but try to stay off it. You will feel refreshed and rejuvenated!

7. Swimming

Whether you're in a pool or in the ocean, spending 20 to 30 minutes swimming will clear your mind, tone your muscles and burn some serious calories. You'll feel energized, peaceful and happy (plus get the incredible benefits of a truly full-body workout).

Two tips:

1. If you're in a pool, make sure to lather your hair in conditioner and then put a cap on.

This is the perfect trick to keep your beautiful locks healthy. Once you finish your swim, wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner.

2. Take it up a notch by performing intervals.

This will work your anaerobic system, which helps burn more fat and get you lean. If you're in a pool, swim one lap as fast as you can, then swim two laps at a slow pace. Repeat this pattern for 20 minutes.

If you're in a lake or in an ocean, time your workouts with a stopwatch by performing for 30 seconds as fast as possible and then going slowly for one minute. Repeat this sequence for 20 minutes.

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