I look forward to summer–the outdoor activities, the backyard barbecues, playing at the pool with my kids. Keeping the kids active and ourselves in shape in summer seems easier. But get ready for summertime sabotage! It doesn’t take long for the kids to get bored and parents to get frustrated. It soon gets so hot that we’re driven indoors. The steaks, hamburgers, baked beans and beer can play havoc with the waistline and make it hard to exercise enough to offset the calories.
June is like the first of the New Year in that we are looking forward to a fresh new start. But unlike the New Year, most of us don’t use the beginning of the summer to set fitness goals for ourselves and our families. What kind of difference could it make for you and even your family if you did?
It doesn’t have to be some expensive, far-away vacation. Lincoln City Parks and Recreation alone offers a summer full of exercise. They rent volleyball sets, Game parachute, horseshoes, bocce balls and other sports equipment for $4-$10 for four days! They have all kinds of activities for individuals, couples, families and kids like outdoor camps (canoeing, hiking, fishing, wall climbing) Taekwonda, ballroom and belly dance, ballet, basketball and tennis camps, swimming and diving. (See http://www.lincoln.ne.gov/city/parks/ for a complete list.) Taking some time to decide specifically how to stay fit can pay off.
Summer time is a great time to also try new foods! Why not set a goal to eat more fruits and vegetables? The colors, variety and freshness make eating at least five fruits and vegetables much easier and appealing. The fresh asparagus, tomatoes, zucchini, new lettuce, and radishes can make summer eating the best. Fresh fruit can take the place of calorie dense desserts and help stop the cravings for them. Setting the goal of eating five or more fresh fruits and vegetables a day is a great goal.
Start the summer right. Have a happy and healthy June!
-Steve
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