An Active NYC Summer

[avatar user=”doller” size=”thumbnail” align=”left” link=”https://somoscc.wpengine.com/who-we-are/denisse-oller”]by Denisse Oller[/avatar]The sun is out, temperatures are up, and school is quickly coming to an end. The start of summer vacation is an exciting time, but it can also require an adjustment for many families. Kids are in school for most of the year, staying engaged mentally and physically in class and during after-school activities. With the start of the summer right around the corner, families have the perfect opportunity to introduce new routines that encourage healthy physical activity while enjoying time together.

Here are some ideas for summer activities the whole family can enjoy:

  • Take a walk – Nice weather means the perfect opportunity to get outside and take a family walk to enjoy the summer and stay healthy. Walking is a convenient and accessible form of physical activity for people of all ages. Check out our Power of Walking blog for all the details and benefits. Take your family for walk across the High Bridge over the Harlem River or if you find yourselves downtown, the West Side Highway has a dedicated walking path with a great view of the Statue of Liberty as an added bonus.

 

  • Take a trip to the park – Visiting the park is a great way to get your family moving and having fun this summer. Incorporate trips to the park into your weekly routine and enjoy family play time while soaking in some sun and fresh air.

 

  • Go for a swim – Swimming is an excellent way to get exercise and have fun with your family all at the same time. The great thing about swimming is that it is a low impact form of aerobic exercise so it’s a good way for people of all ages to stay healthy. The summer is a perfect time to take your family to the water, get some relief from the heat and enjoy a day of fun while keeping your bodies engaged and fit. Visit the NYC Parks website for a list of free outdoor pools to visit starting June 27th this season.

 

  • Take a bike ride – Taking a daytime family bike ride is a great way to spend time together, enjoy the outdoors and sneak in some exercise. Cycling uses all major muscle groups as you pedal so your family will build strength and stamina while spending time together. But don’t forget your helmets!

 

Whether you’re at the park or on a biking adventure, be sure to pack healthy snacks and stay hydrated while you are exercising:

If you are headed out for a day in the sun, be sure to bring along some fruits and chopped vegetables to snack on. Some good options are apples, oranges, bananas, celery, carrots, or cucumbers. These nutrient-packed foods are easy to throw in your bag to keep you full and going strong throughout the day. Another great snack to carry with you is a small bag of nuts. Store some of these in your bag to make sure you are eating healthy while out and about.

It is very easy to find yourself tired and dehydrated while caught in the heat. Make sure you are drinking enough water so that you can have fun and soak in all the benefits of your outdoor activities. An effective way to avoid dehydration is to get a reusable water bottle and have it with you for all your outdoor, summer excursions.

Staying active is key to a healthy lifestyle, and summer is the perfect time of the year to get outside and get moving. So…what are you waiting for? Grab some snacks and some water, get out there, and go have some fun!

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/meals.html

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/swimmers/health_benefits_water_exercise.html

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/fitness-ideas-for-the-entire-family/art-20267398

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/cycling-health-benefits