Great Britain perhaps isn’t perceived to have the best summers going. Though we may get our fair share of dull days and rain showers, summer does bring about longer days which in turn increase our ability to get outside for longer (without having to use a torch) and indulge in hopefully some good summer weather; this being British is known as anything 10°C+! Let me introduce you to some ways in which you can make the most of health and fitness this summer!

Hit the water

Whether heading to the coast or diving into the local lido, water is a great place to exercise, especially outside. When exercising outside you benefit from fresh air, and generally working out in water gives you a good whole body workout with reduced impact on joints. Swimming is a great form of exercise, though not the only water-based activity you can try your hand at in the warmer months – surfing and paddle boarding are great workouts for your core and upper body, and can be done locally at the South Cerney lakes. Alternatively, why not take your water activity to the coast for a change of scenery?!

Try a new event

Spring and summer are the seasons to undertake an event – lots of running, triathlons, cycling and obstacle runs tend to crop up throughout summer. Signing up to an event can give you a really good goal to work towards, but remember to progress slowly… For example, if you’re new to running, try a 5k or 10k before you attempt a marathon with only two months’ training!

Summer seasonal produce

Though these days grocery stores and supermarkets import seasonal fruits and vegetables all year round,
I believe there is still merit in waiting for British seasonal produce. Fresh strawberries or tomatoes picked locally have a distinctive beautiful taste and are often organically grown.

Adding fresh cucumber or citrus fruits to water or even a cheeky gin is a great way of adding flavour as well as getting in vital micronutrients we need for health. Summer is also BBQ season so don’t forget to visit your local butchers or fishmongers who spoil us with wonderfully marinated products throughout summer!

Active holidays

Perhaps getting active isn’t the first thing you think of when you book time off from work, but it can create a wonderful holiday. Cycling holidays are a great way of keeping active, whilst taking in beautiful scenery and visiting lots of places in the local area. Yoga camps are also on the rise, mixing time away to chill out with daily yoga, which likewise helps relaxation and relieves stress. If however you’re up for a more intensive excursion, there are plenty of boot camp style trips and sports specific camps around, including Muay Thai camps in Asia!

Morning workouts

As the days grow longer, the mornings are brighter, which gives you the perfect opportunity to get some exercise in before your day has fully begun. Exercising before breakfast has many benefits including improved energy throughout the day, better glucose and blood pressure control, and improved ability to burn fat. So set your alarm an hour early and your body will thank you later in the day!