How To Stay in Shape Over the Summer

Welcome to Dr. Chen’s exclusive tips on how to stay in shape over the summer. Students will soon be able to relax and enjoy their summer vacation and many of you, I assume, already have your summer vacation planned out–whether it be staying in Guangzhou, traveling or taking classes. But do not forget to add in a simple daily exercise to keep yourself fit and healthy over the summer!

Having a well-balanced lifestyle over the summer have many benefits such as stronger bones and muscles, increased energy levels and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Moreover, exercising is a way to relieve stress and distracting yourself from things that create stress.

There are many ways how you can stay in shape over the summer. Here are some tips for motivation and a few exercises you can do over the summer to stay healthy:

Tips on how to stay motivated:

1. Exercise with a friend: Having a buddy can make exercising much more fun and less lonely.
2. Start slow: Starting slow and easy will continue your motivation. If you start strong in the beginning, you might end up being discouraged due to the difficult and tiring exercises.
3. Do exercises you enjoy: Do not go to the gym to lift weights if that is not what you prefer. If jogging or swimming is what you prefer, those are what you should do.

Exercises/Daily Activities To Do:

1. Biking: Instead of ordering a didi or a cab to nearby places, bike! Not only is it more environmental-friendly, but it is also health-friendly!
2. Swimming: Swimming in a hot, dry day in summer sounds great. Not only is it fun, but it is also a great exercise for your lungs and muscles!
3. Go for a run: Running or jogging is a great way to get your daily exercise done. It is easy, but can also get your heart beating and muscles moving. Start slow for a shorter distance and gradually increase difficulty.
4. Go for a walk: Walking your dog (if you have one) or just simply exploring the undiscovered neighborhood for 20-30 minutes a day can still allow you to stay fit.

Consistently doing simple and enjoyable exercises for a few times a week can allow you to stay both mentally and physically fit throughout summer vacation. It can also allow you to start the new school year fresh and with a clear mind.