Spring Fever

So it has technically been Spring for almost a month now.  But unless you live in Southern California or Cancun, the weather has been less than "Springy."  I don't know about any of you, but between April snowstorms and sub-20 degree temperatures, I'm all Winter-d out for at least the next decade.

Since Spring has finally sprung, now would be a great time to discuss a new set of workouts!  I know a lot of my friends don't have access to a gym, or cannot afford one (I'm right there with ya, kids).  However, there is no reason to go to the gym to get a good workout in when you have the great outdoors at your disposal (for free)!

Hands-down one of my favorite ways to get cardio in when it's warm outside is jumping rope.  You can find them for a dollar at most stores, and they don't take any expertise (literally, six year olds can do it).  If it's been a while, you may need a couple practice runs, but once you've got it down, it's like riding a bike.  You'll jump right back into it (see what I did there?)!

Speaking of riding a bike, that is another one of my favorite exercises for the warmer weather.  It's faster than walking, less tiresome than running, and so much fun.  Find yourself a nice trail, bring a buddy along to talk, and have at it!  Don't forget your helmet, though!  Also, common laws about biking on the road are stick to the right side (as if you were driving) if you're riding a bike, but if you're walking, walk on the left side and face oncoming traffic.  I feel like those laws are commonly neglected, but as both a driver and someone who likes to take her workouts to the outdoors, they actually are very important.  You can also use hand signals if you're biking on a highway to act as your turn signal to let other drivers know your intentions.

Finally, if you can gather a bunch of friends together, nothing beats a good old-fashioned game of your favorite sport.  I personally love badminton (great for when you can only find one person to play), or volleyball (better for larger groups).  This makes working out fun, and it also provides ample time for catching up.  Who knows, maybe some of your high school friends still have what they had back in the day! ;)

If none of these ideas particularly appeal to you, Pinterest has a never-ending supply of great ideas to use for your workouts.  I utilize Pinterest a lot when I get stuck in a rut.  Also, don't get discouraged if you find yourself getting bored with your workouts.  Stick it out this time, then when you finish up, get online and start searching!! It helps to boost your metabolism because your body isn't expecting the change-up, and it also keeps your workouts fun!  Which, we all know, is the secret to keeping up your routine.  Boredom makes us sloppy.

There's nothing like getting out into the fresh air when the weather starts to warm up.  Whether you decide to take your workouts outdoors, or simply drink some sweet tea on the porch with your girlfriends catching up, relish these days!  It seems like we don't see too many of these beautiful days anymore.

xoxo,

Rachel