It’s patio season and everyone is thinking about the best way to get their beach body back. Rather than spend even more time in a dark, windowless gym, take advantage and get your workout on while the sun shines in Canada.
Yoga in the Park
A favourite option for city dwellers, you will frequently see yogis toting their mat to the park to enjoy being one with nature while taking care of both their physical and mental health. Even if you think you wouldn’t like yoga, you might just love the outdoor variety. Something about the sun on your face while you hold the sun salutation pose is just energizing.
Sports Teams
While you might not have loved organized sports as a kid, if you’re not normally one for exercise, joining a local recreational sports team can give you the exercise your body needs while also fulfilling a need for social time—something we don’t get enough of as we get older and our lives become filled with work and family obligations. And while you can join them all year long, it’s much easier to motivate yourself to do so when it means you get to play in the park instead of a dark gym.
Slackline
Another popular option for city dwellers who live for park hangs, slacklining is a form of tightrope walking between trees. You can buy your own slackline kit for under $70, but if you’re not sure if it’s for you just show up at the park and ask one of the many slackliners if you can give it a try. It’s harder than you might think, as it requires an incredible amount of balance and a strong core.
Biking
While this is the old standard come nice weather, Canadian cities are making it easier than ever with bike rentals popping up everywhere. So, even if you don’t have one of your own, there’s no excuse not to commit.
Sailing and Rowing
Water sports are only available for a short window of time in Canada—take advantage of them while you can. Not only will you get a different kind of exercise and work out muscles you never knew you had, it’s an excuse to spend more time on the water, which is also good for your mental health.
