A physically active lifestyle does not mean you are spending your spare time in exercise classes or jogging to work, you can burn calories doing different activities, most of which take place outside of the gym. And, by breaking free of the gym once in a while, you renew your enthusiasm to hit the gym again for your strength training sessions – which are a must if you hope to manage your Type 2 diabetes.
Let us go over ten ways to be more active this summer…
1. Go rollerblading. There is no better way to get your heart rate up and work those lower body muscles. Rollerblading is a fantastic cardio exercise for anyone looking to build strength in their legs.
2. Plant a garden. Gardening can be a great calorie burner: it is an excellent way to not only burn some energy but also transform your yard. You might even grow some vegetables, so you have fresh veggies on hand.
3. Go to a farmer’s market. Speaking of fresh vegetables, hit a farmers market on the weekend. It is a relaxing way to get some walking in and find some hidden gems you would not see at your local supermarket.
4. Start a game of tennis with a friend. Tennis is a fantastic cardio activity and will help boost your fast-twitch muscle fibers. You will burn up to 500 calories an hour.
5. Dance under the stars. On date night with your significant other? Head out to a local walkway and do some dancing under the stars. Dancing is romantic and will burn more energy than sitting in a theatre watching a movie.
6. Join a recreational soccer league. Team sports can be an excellent way to burn calories and get in shape. Look into a recreational soccer league or a baseball team. Think back to what you enjoyed as a kid and get involved again.
7. Train for a marathon. For the ambitious, you might try training for a marathon. Try running early in the morning or later in the evening to beat the mid-day heat.
8. Play a game of beach volleyball. Beach volleyball is not only excellent cardio but is also perfect for hitting those lower body muscles as you have to work harder in the sand. It is a fun way to spend an hour at the beach.
9. Take a bike ride with your kids. Rather than watching TV after dinner, take a bike ride with your children. It is the perfect family time and encourages physical activity.
10. Hit the pool. Finally, on those warm summer days, consider hitting the pool. Swimming is the perfect way to burn calories while having fun at the same time.
To enjoy the benefits of physical activity, which include better blood sugar control and weight loss, what you are aiming for is a healthy level of physical activity. Look for simple ways to burn calories in your everyday life, and they are sure to appear.
