By Meg Stickl, AIM Fitness
“Meg, I didn’t have time for my regular workout yesterday, but I did manage to get in a long walk at the park with my grandkids,” one of my clients proudly shared.
This made me smile—because that’s exactly what staying active during busy seasons is all about. It’s not about sticking to a perfect routine. It’s about weaving movement into your life, in ways that feel good and fit your schedule.
The Summer Struggle is Real
Summer brings a lot of wonderful things—vacations, family visits, outdoor events, festivals—but it can also throw off our normal routines. Travel plans, hot weather and changing schedules can make it feel harder to find time for structured exercise.
The good news? Staying active doesn’t have to mean spending hours in a gym or sticking to a rigid workout program. A little movement, done consistently, goes a long way for your health, your energy and your mood.
Mini-Movements Are the Secret
When life gets busy, think small. Five to 10 minutes of movement at a time are enough to keep your body strong and your mind energized.
Here are some easy ways to sneak movement into your day:
• Morning walks: Start your day with a brisk walk before the heat kicks in. Even 10 to15 minutes will wake up your muscles and boost your mood.
• Stretch breaks: Do simple stretches while waiting for your coffee to brew or during TV commercials.
• Summer fun activities: Swimming at the beach, playing tag with grandkids, even strolling through farmers’ markets—it all counts!
• Sneaky strength training: Carrying heavier groceries, using stairs instead of elevators or doing calf raises while brushing your teeth can build strength without formal workouts.
The idea is simple: Move your body in ways that fit naturally into your summer lifestyle.
Create Summer Rituals
One of the easiest ways to stay active is to tie movement to existing daily habits.
• After-dinner walks: Instead of heading straight to the couch, head outside for a short stroll. It’s a great way to aid digestion and enjoy the cooler evening air.
• Morning stretch sessions: Begin your day with five minutes of gentle stretching. This simple practice can improve flexibility, wake up your body, and set a positive tone.
• Active family time: If you have visitors or grandkids, plan activities that involve movement—a backyard game, a beach day or even a sightseeing walk.
By linking movement to daily habits, it becomes easier and more automatic—not just another item on your to-do list.
Listen to Your Body
It’s important to be mindful of how the heat affects you, especially if you’re exercising outdoors.
• Choose cooler times of day—early mornings or later evenings—for outdoor activities.
• Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly.
• Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and use sun protection like hats and sunscreen.
Remember, your body is doing its best to keep you cool and comfortable, so it’s okay to modify your usual routines when the weather demands it.
Celebrate Small Wins
If you manage a 15-minute walk, some stretching and some playful time at the park, that’s a huge success. Don’t underestimate the impact of small, consistent actions.
Movement doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.
The Big Picture
Summer is meant to be enjoyed. It’s a time to laugh more, be outside and spend time with the people you love. Staying active helps you feel your best, so you can say “yes” to all the fun experiences that come your way.
This summer, give yourself permission to move in your own way—whether that’s a morning walk, an afternoon swim or simply choosing to stand and stretch a little more often.
You’ve got this! Here’s to a season full of joyful, feel-good movement.
In Health and Fitness,
Meg
