Top 5 Summer Workout Ideas to Help You Stay in Tip-Top Shape

Summer is quickly approaching. As hiking trails and outdoor pools open up again and fitness centers start to unlock their doors, we finally have more opportunities to break up our regular exercise routines and try something new. To help you get started, one of the best gyms in Pittsburgh — X Shadyside — is here to share our top 5 summer workout ideas with you. 

1. Kayak, Paddle Board, and Swim the Three Rivers 

Fight Off the Summer Heat

Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a fitness enthusiast who wants to break up their normal routine, the Pittsburgh area offers a wide variety of rivers and lakes that are perfect for cooling down from the summer heat. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming are just a few of the most popular outdoor summer workouts you can try. These activities offer a wide variety of benefits, including:

• A killer upper body workout that targets your arms, back, and shoulders
• An increased source of vitamin D thanks to the long hours spent outside
• Improved self-confidence from breaking personal records 
• Strengthened heart health

2. Try a Spin Class

Sweat it Out at a Heart-Pounding Spin Class in One of the Best Gyms in Pittsburgh 

If you are ready to experience one of the most intense workouts of your life, a spin class might be just what you need. Indoor cycling classes provide an exciting and challenging cardiovascular workout fit for members of all fitness levels. During each class, students are led through a series of hills, sprints, and endurance intervals. Accompanying them is a vibrant atmosphere accompanied by energizing music and motivating instruction. 

Not only will students leave knowing they finished a difficult workout, but they will also enjoy benefits such as:

• Being a part of a supportive fitness community
• Building lean muscle definition
• Increased core and lower-body strength 

3. Take a Hike

Enjoy Western PA’s Natural Trails

It’s important to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city every once in a while. Mix up your work out routine with a day trip to a nearby hiking trail. 

While the city’s beautiful streets and bustling buildings are a wonderful sight to behold, nature offers its own breathtaking views for Yinzers from all areas of the city. From Ohiopyle to Oil Creek State Park, visitors have plenty of options when it comes to finding a nature trail they like. 

Here are some of our favorites:

• Ohiopyle State Park: Located on 19,052 acres across the Dunbar, Henry Clay, and Stewart Townships in Fayette County, Ohiopyle offers miles of unforgettable trails and rivers. Visitors can hike, bike, and even horseback ride across the park’s scenic trails. 
• Oil Creek State Park: For years, visitors have traveled to Oil Creek State Park to enjoy its natural beauty. Apart from hiking and biking, visitors can also fish, kayak, and swim in the park’s rivers. 
• Gerard Hiking Trail: Expanding 36 miles of trails, the Gerard Hiking Trail has attracted visitors from all over the area looking for an escape to nature. Along with the regular hiking trails, Gerard also offers 9.7 miles of trails for biking.  

4. Join a Local Sports League

Change Up Your Workout Routine With a Little Pick-Up Game

Looking to get back into tennis? Want to brush up on your basketball skills? Pittsburgh is home to a large number of adult sports leagues. Everything from rugby to roller derby to soccer organizations are available for people looking to represent the Steel City. Sports are great way to get back into — or stay in — shape thanks to the healthy dose of cardio they bring to you. Even if you have never played these sports before, it is never too late to start.  

5. Dance it Out

Try a Zumba or Barre Class

Cardio doesn’t always have to consist of running or biking. Group dance classes such as Zumba are great for getting your feet moving and your heart pumping. Since its start in the mid-’90s, over six million people have benefited from this fitness phenomenon. Zumba offers numerous health benefits, such as improved coordination, decreased stress levels, and an increase in body tone.

Barre workout classes are also a popular dance-inspired workout. However, many of the moves in barre classes are inspired by the controlled movements taught in ballet and pilates classes rather than the fast-paced dances in Zumba. Some classes may also add weights and resistance bands to give you a nice burn. 

Summer is finally here! While it is important to remember to hit the weights and get your cardio in, that doesn’t mean you have to keep doing the same, repetitive workouts. What workout are you going to add to your summer routine next? For more ideas, hit up one of the best gyms in Pittsburgh — X Shadyside — to get the work out of your life in.