Love Your Summer Workout

As we say good-bye to swimwear and shorts — not to mention the warm weather that they accompany — I can’t seem to let go of the desire to exercise in the outdoors. 

The added sunshine has definitely been one of my biggest motivators to keep working out. On the Friday before the long weekend, it suddenly dawned on me how lucky I was to take in the scene in front of me that evening: a clear pathway by the lake, free to jog, walk or bike on — a place too where I could go on losing myself and the pressures of the day, simply by being there. 

In the space of an hour, it was very refreshing to have done so much good for my body and soul. Despite almost being trampled by a few raging cyclists, it was a soothing run for me.            

It was a beautiful night and it made me happy to see others take advantage of these final, fleeting days of summer as well. The memories of times like these will surely encourage me to keep up when winter rolls around and remaining active will probably resort to staying indoors. (Unfortunately, I’m not as strong of a skater as I am a jogger and I still have yet to take up skiing.)            

Until then, I will continue to look forward to moments of solace in the summer heat, quiet runs, rooftop yoga and, of course, swimming.            

But no matter what your activity of choice, consider this fact. Current stats from Public Health Agency of Canada’s website reveal that 63% of Canadians aren’t active enough to achieve the health benefits they need from physical activity.            

Although finding the time to reap the health rewards from regular exercise may seem daunting, it doesn’t have to take all day or be worked in all at once. A few minutes at a time are all it takes to make the most of the situation, your time and, more importantly, your wellbeing. So cheers, to healthy living and the wonderful, invigorating weather that continues to inspire us to take a gander.

— Alexandra Christopoulos