Summer Exercise: Tips for Families and Individuals of All Ages
Summer presents an excellent opportunity to embrace a more active lifestyle, with longer days and warm weather to encourage outdoor activities. Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining health and wellbeing. However, modern sedentary lifestyles have led to increased health risks. Notably, more than half (55%) of Australian adults do not meet physical activity guidelines, and 2 in 3 (70%) children aged 2 to 17 also fall short of these recommendations.
To help you make the most of the summer months, here are tailored exercise tips for different groups:
1. Families with Young Children
Outdoor Adventures:: Plan family outings to local parks or beaches. Activities like hiking, swimming, or playing games such as, frisbee can keep everyone engaged and active.
Create an Obstacle Course: Set up a fun and challenging obstacle course in your backyard using household items. This encourages physical activity and creativity among children.
Gardening Together: Involve kids in gardening tasks. It is a productive way to spend time outdoors and promotes physical activity.
2. Working Professionals
Active Commute: Consider walking or cycling to work, if feasible.This integrates exercise into your daily routine without requiring extra time.
Lunch Break Workouts: Utilise your lunch break for a quick workout session. A brisk walk or a short gym session can boost energy levels for the afternoon.
Standing Desks: Incorporate a standing desk or take short breaks to stand and stretch during work hours to reduce prolonged sitting.
3. Older Australians
Low-Impact Exercises: Engage inactivities like walking, swimming, or tai chi, which are gentle on the joints and promote flexibility and balance.
Group Classes: Join community exercise classes tailored for older adults. This provides a social aspect and ensures exercises are appropriate for your fitness level.
Consistency Over Intensity: Focus on regular, moderate exercise rather than high-intensity workouts.
General Tips for Summer Exercise
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise to stay hydrated, especially in the summer heat.
Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from harmful UV rays during outdoor activities.
Timing: Schedule workouts during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid peak heat.
By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can make the most of the summer season - improving your physical activity levels and your family and community connectedness, while counteracting the negative health issues associated with modern and sedentary lifestyles.
If you would like the professional support of an experienced Australian-registered GP to help you or a loved one become more active, consider booking an online telehealth appointment with Private Medical today.
