I’m the first to admit that it gets hard to stay on routine during the winter. It’s cold and wet outside, you need to bundle up before doing anything, and everything seems like such a chore. Personally, my urge to hibernate and avoid the outside at all costs goes way up when it’s cold. That can wreak havoc on anyone’s routine if you’re not prepared.

How do I prepare for this? I use the summertime to establish my routine and make sure my year long habits stick! By locking myself into good habits when it’s easier, it’s a lot easier to stick to them when it’s harder. So why summer? Because there are no excuses in summer: absolutely no reasons not to jump on the wagon and get started!

Here are 8 reasons why:

1. All you need is a pair of shoes (NGR SHOES OF COURSE), some workout clothes, and to step outside and you’re at the gym. There are literally hundreds of exercises you can do outside with little or no equipment.
2. Motivation is high because hot weather = wearing less clothes. There is no better time to start!
3. The kids are off of school so you’re going to be out and about all the time. Take advantage of this to sneak in some exercise. At the playground? Do some lunges while you watch instead of sitting on the bench. Enjoying the soccer game? Engage your muscles by contracting and relaxing them.
4. It’s way easier to leave the car behind and walk. For example, if you buy fewer groceries each time, you can carry your bags or use your stroller as a cart. If that’s not possible, you can always park a few blocks away and take advantage of the great weather by walking.
5. There are tons of weekly activities, festivals, fairs, concerts, and shows the whole family can enjoy. These are a way to enjoy the fresh air and be active!
6. Friends are always up for doing something when the weather is nice. This makes it way easier to find a partner you’re accountable to. The best trick I can give you is to say “yes” when asked and find someone that does the same. “Yes” people get invited more often than “no” people!
7. There are many affordable classes given outside which are a fantastic break from the in-studio norm. Find one in your area or get a few girlfriends together and set one up with trainer!
8. Most of us automatically have a smaller appetite in summer so we tend to eat less and drink more. That’s like a free head start if you can control yourself around those BBQ temptations!

Jennifer Cohen

No Gym Required™

Jennifer Cohen is the author of NO GYM REQUIRED: UNLEASH YOUR INNER ROCK STAR. She is leading the NO GYM REQUIRED movement to teach people to take control of their health and maximize their environment to get to the best possible versions of themselves!