The days are getting longer and the temperature is heating up. The cold veil of winter has slipped away to reveal the nation of Australia waking from its hibernation – it’s time to get out and get moving.

Summer and the end of year holidays are a great time recharge your exercise routine. There’s a general feeling of optimism and potential in the air which can be harnessed to improve ourselves and those around us. As we start to get more hours of sunlight in the day it becomes easier to get out earlier or stay out later to fit in physical activity.

Aim to take advantage of the weather and look at completing as much exercise outside as possible. Exercising outside has been shown to enhance the mental health benefits of physical activity – increased euphoria during exercise and greater feelings of relaxation afterwards. Instead of jumping on the treadmill why not get out for a walk or run? Instead of lifting weights at the gym why not pop down to your local park and do some resistance training using your body weight and/or a resistance band?

If you’re not comfortable completing your own exercise session or would like to try something new, you could try out an exercise class. Australian City Councils offer a huge range of free healthy activities in most areas (some require a pool entry fee). Do you want to try your hand(s) at boxing, or put on your brightest outfit and give Bollywood Dancing a go? There’s something for everyone and you can narrow down your search by type of activity, date, and location, or you can leave these options open and see all that your city has to offer over the coming months.

Brisbane: https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/things-to-see-and-do/outdoor-activities/active-and-healthy-events

Melbourne: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/d/australia--melbourne/free-fitness-class-events/

Sydney: https://www.activeandhealthy.nsw.gov.au/program/area/Sydney

Tai Chi is often performed outside at a local park. Tai Chi is strongly recommended for Seniors as it has been shown to benefit proprioception, balance, joint health, and mental acuity, but any age group can join in and benefit from this mindful practice of moving the body.

Another great exercise mode for summer is swimming. Swimming is a fantastic exercise for cardiovascular health and burning fat. However, exercising in the pool does not have to be constrained to swimming laps. Body weight exercises like squats or lunges or more cardio-type exercise such as walking or running can also be completed in the pool. The nature of water based-exercise means it puts less stress on your joints and can be a great type of exercise for seniors, those with arthritis, or someone with an acute musculoskeletal injury. There are options for aqua aerobics and swimming classes throughout most major cities.

Exercise can be completed on top of the water as well. If you’re feeling adventurous then why not try sailing, kayaking, or paddle boarding? Sailing, kayaking, and paddle boarding can benefit both your musculoskeletal AND cardiovascular systems.

Make sure to stay sun-safe; use sunscreen, adequate clothing/protection, and ensure to stay adequately hydrated.