Staying Active This Summer
As summer approaches and students are making many plans, one important thing goes forgotten: staying active! Studies have shown that physical activity for adolescents declines during the summer break. It is super important to maintain healthy habits, especially without the daily exercise of walking up Manley stairs that students usually get during the school year. However, staying active does not always mean exercise at the gym or working out. Here are some fun ideas to stay in shape, without leaving you exhausted and sore:
Water Activities. With the rainy season just wrapping up in the spring, summer is the time to visit the pool, the beach, or anywhere that involves water. Consider a trip to the Yosemite or Lassen Volcanic National Parks, where you can take a dip in the lake surrounded by nature. Or, host a pool party with friends and family, playing fun pool games like Marco Polo or water volleyball.
Gardening. Summer is the prime planting season for a variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. If you know you have a green thumb, or just want to beautify your backyard, make sure to try out this fun hobby. In fact, cucumbers, tomatoes, hibiscus, peppers, marigold, and berries are perfect for planting in the summer. Gardening is a great way to get back on your feet and into the summer sun!
Community service. This summer, why not give back the community? Look for opportunities working at food banks, parks, local gardens, animal shelters, and anywhere else that you would enjoy. Plus, committing a couple hours to community service every month will also help you get ahead on the annual community service requirements!
Take walks. Walking around the neighborhood can be a great source of exercise. When the weather is too hot, taking a walk before breakfast or after dinner gives you an opportunity to breathe the fresh air and enjoy nature without the suffocating California heat.
No matter what summer plans you have, it is essential that you remember to stay active, whether it is going out to enjoy the nature or helping your community!
