Get fit in the sun

When we think of sunny holidays, we tend to think of indulging in cocktails and ice-cream, relaxing by the pool and enjoying the local foodie delights. It’s no wonder then that after a week or two of being on holiday you’re left with a spare tyre and feel as bloated as an inflatable pool toy.
Instead of spending your whole week horizontal, why not utilise the sunny weather and get some exercise? Here  are some top ways to get fit in the sun.

Holiday swimming
It’s no surprise that swimming is one of the best activities to enjoy in the sun, but most holiday makers simply use the pool as a way to cool down. If you went to the swimming baths at home, wouldyou merely wade in the waters? Use this opportunity to top up your fitness levels and aim to swim 10 lengths each day that you’re away. It will surely earn you your ice-cream, as freestyle swimming will burn around 100 calories for every 10 minutes, with the added bonus of toning your beach bod, as swimming uses all the major muscle groups in the body at once. Ticking off your 10 lengths first thing or just before they close the pool when it should be quiet.

Beach yoga
The relaxing benefits of yoga combined with the blissful serenity of a sunny beach, equals the perfect way to get fit in the sun. Slap on your sun protection and kick off your flip-flops for an hour of beach yoga to boost your fitness and wellbeing. Perfect your sun salutations and crescent moons in the warmth of the sun – just remember to keep topped up on water. Stretching out your limbs on the soft sand is a great experience compared to the confines of a fitness centre – after all, being outdoors is how yoga was intended.

Beach volleyball
Don’t worry – you don’t have to be as scantily clad as the pros (unless you want to, that is). Beach volleyball is a fun, frivolous and fitness-boosting activity to enjoy when the weather is good.Ducks and dives are optional, but as long as you’re covering ground and reaching for the ball, you’ll be working all your major muscle groups and burning off the piña coladas.

Running in the sand
Remember that feeling of being a kid on holiday? The beach seemed like a never-ending opportunity for freedom and fun.Take to the beach on your holiday and go for a gentle jog each morning on the sand to liven your spirits and give you that priceless feeling of freedom with the breeze on your face. Studies have shown that running on sand burns more calories than your usual solid surface, and you can enjoy the added of bonus of being able to dip into the sea to cool off afterwards.

Give open air swimming a go
If you’re planning on staying at home this summer, you don’t have to miss out on the outdoor fun you have when abroad. You can still enjoy the classic summertime activity of swimming, even if you’re opting for a staycation. With plenty of open air swimming pools to relish, and designated safe open waters, you’ll be feeling fit in no time this summer. If you’re feeling brave, then take to the choppier waters of Britain’s selected rivers, sea caves and lochs (look out for official, safe swimming spots – don’t get yourself in hot water!). Alternatively, be sure to check out the selection of lidos (open air swimming pools) dotted around the country, particularly in the south of England.

Try body boarding and surfing
Body boarding and surfing are fun and challenging at the best of times, but in the sun it’s 10 times more enjoyable! Give your upper arms and stomach a good workout by slotting this fun-in-the-sun activity into your holiday schedule. Take a lesson and master the basics, then you’ll be away in the waves and giving your fitness a healthy kick in the right direction.

What about snorkelling?
Snorkelling has got to be one of the perks of being on holiday, but it is also a great way to keep fit and soak up the sun. While you’re admiring the sea creatures, your arms and legs will be getting a great workout as you keep your body afloat. Try to enjoy a snorkelling session every day on your holiday to really feel the benefits and give your fitness levels a boost. You’ll be so fixated on the underwater life that you’ll forget you’re exercising at all!

Hiking or coastal walks
What better way to spend your summer holiday than taking in the beautiful sights of an unfamiliar country while giving your fitness levels a much-needed boost? Counteract your indulgent all-inclusive munching and take to the hills, valleys or coast of your holiday destination. You will tone your legs and stomach and have the chance to get some amazing photographs on the way. Even if you’re tempted to pack an indulgent picnic, you’ll burn it off as you meander and climb your way through the wilderness.

Go boating
Hire a pedal boat or kayak and take to the waves for a truly fun and calorie-burning activity. Your quads and core will benefit from an hour of powering the pedal boat, while your upper arms will get a workout as they paddle; just make sure you don’t let your partner do all the work! The choppier the water the harder you have to work, making this a fun fitness activity for the whole family to enjoy on their summer holiday. The satisfying tingling in your muscles the following day makes this a worthwhile holiday pursuit – just don’t go too far out to sea!