Summer Planning

by Leslie Aronson — May 26, 2008

Ah, summertime, when we get to stay outside late into the evening, enjoy those outdoor activities we've been hankering for over the past winter, plan barbecues and vacations, and soak up the sun. And while summertime is, generally speaking, a time when we're more active and tend to be in better shape than during the winter months, there is a lot of potential to fall off the fitness wagon.

Vacations are necessary. Regardless of whether you physically go someplace exotic, it is a mental and emotional necessity to take time away from the usual grind and relax. The challenge, however, is to maintain at least a modicum of the usual fitness routine while indulging in some relaxation time. When I go on vacation, or alter my usual routine in any way, really, I tend to fall off the wagon and have a pretty hard time getting back on when the routine-altering event is over. If, however, I planned ahead and negotiated some kind of exercise into the vacation schedule, perhaps I wouldn't find it quite so hard to get back on track.

The type of vacation you plan can be important as well. For instance, if you are planning a cruise, expect a lot of temptation from the ubiquitous buffets and find a way to move around a bit while on board. Or plan a vacation that revolves around physical activity like a backpacking trip or a stay at a National Park. Whatever your plans this summer, keep your fitness goals in mind, whether you're chowing down at the neighborhood barbecue or headed for a week at the grandparents - planning ahead could save you some frustration later.