Summer is here, and it's the perfect time to take care of your body and tone it up. Whether you're at the beach, in the mountains, in the city or at home, there are plenty of physical activities that will keep you active while having fun. So get out there - or don't get out there - and get ready to enjoy the summer while improving your fitness!
AT THE BEACH OR IN THE SEA
When you're at the beach, take advantage of the sand and water for some stimulating exercise. Running on sand puts more strain on your muscles than running on a hard surface. You could also try the following exercises:
Walking lunges: do forward lunges as you walk through the water until the water reaches your knees. This will strengthen your legs and glutes while providing extra resistance.
Swimming: swimming is an excellent exercise for the whole body. Take the opportunity to swim a few lengths in the sea and strengthen your muscles while cooling off.
Surfing: Not only is it fun, but paddling out to catch the waves puts your arms, shoulders and back to work. Once you're up on the board, you'll work your abdominal muscles, legs and glutes to maintain balance. Surfing is a great way to improve your strength, coordination and endurance while connecting with the ocean.
IN THE MOUNTAINS
If you're lucky enough to spend some time in the mountains this summer, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery while getting some exercise. Here are a few activities to try:
Hiking: explore the hiking trails and enjoy the surrounding nature. Hiking is a great way to burn calories while strengthening your legs and stamina.
Mountain biking: if you're an adrenaline junkie, try mountain biking. It's an exciting activity that works your balance, coordination and muscles.
Climbing: if you're a thrill-seeker, try rock climbing. You can find climbing walls suitable for beginners, supervised by professionals. It's an activity that uses every muscle in your body.
In the City
If you prefer to stay in the city, there are also many opportunities to stay active and tone your body:
Rollerblading: Join a rollerblading group in Paris or your city and explore new neighborhoods while improving your balance and strengthening your legs.
Skateboarding: Skateboarding is an excellent way to exercise while having fun. Try joining a local skate crew in Paris or your city for enjoyable and challenging skate sessions. This will help you build muscle, improve your balance, and develop coordination.
Brisk Walking: Use the city sidewalks for brisk walking. It's a simple yet effective activity for burning calories and strengthening your legs.
Gym: Don't hesitate to visit a gym to stay motivated and enjoy a friendly workout session with your friends or family.
...Moreover, let us introduce you to Chez Simone, a place in Paris with a concept designed by and for women, which inspires us, uplifts us, and caters to our deep needs for reconnecting and recharging. You can feel at home there and exercise with confidence.
...Surprising but true, it is possible to work out in a nightclub. That's the concept adopted by Mon Q, which invites you to a nightclub, La Java, a legendary Parisian club. You can also discover the MVMT club, where the concept of 'party fitness' focuses on dance-based workouts in a clubbing atmosphere
AT HOME
If you are unable to go out or prefer the privacy of your own home, here are some exercise ideas you can do at home to tone your body:
Online classes: If you prefer to exercise at home, there are numerous online fitness classes available. You can try HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) classes or weightlifting sessions. All you need is a mat or a clear space at home to start your workout.
Circuit training: Create a circuit of exercises including squats, push-ups, lunges, burpees, planks, and jumps. Alternate between each exercise for a set duration and allow yourself short rest periods between each set. This will help you work on strength and endurance.
Yoga or Pilates: Follow online video classes for yoga or Pilates that will guide you through a sequence of stretching and muscle-strengthening exercises. These disciplines are excellent for toning the entire body, improving flexibility, and promoting relaxation.
Dance: Put on some upbeat music and dance at home. Dance is not only fun, but it also helps you burn calories, improve coordination, and tone your muscles.
...Pssst, if you're not sure where to start, we are delighted to introduce you to Apolline Di Fazio, a professional dancer, choreographer, and instructor who offers classes through the Mouv'Arts association.