Summer is halfway over, and if you’re anything like me - some days feel like Groundhog’s Day. We’ve done the same thing day after day, and we are ready for a CHANGE UP! We asked the ladies in the Mother’s of Fitness Facebook Group (come join us!) to share some of their favorite summer activities to do as a family. So whether your kids are 6 months or 16 years, here are some universal, fun ideas to do with your kids on these hot summer days!
Water, water, and more water!
Photo courtesy of spy.com
Even if you don’t have a pool or lake/beach nearby, there are still so many fun water activities that you can do! Here are some of our favorites:
- Kiddie pools! An inflatable kiddie pool is a great way to cool down. Bonus points if you add in a kids basketball hoop or bring a water table into it!
- Set up a sprinkler. Any other parents have some incredible memories as a kid running through the sprinklers? Get silly and grab an umbrella or rain boots, and have some fun while running in the water.
- For the older kids - a homemade slip n slide! Tarps or plastic drop cloths work great, are super cheap, and incredibly easy to set up.
- Find a splash pad in your neighborhood to visit.
- Play with water balloons or water guns!
Get CREATIVE!
Photo courtesy of jugglingwithkids.com
Here are some great activities to spark the creativity in our kiddos:
- Set up an art station! For older kids, set up a mini easel and let them paint/draw to their heart’s desire! For younger kids/toddlers, a great option for “painting” is dipping a paint brush in water and painting on cement. This is one of those God-send CLEAN “messy fun”activities that really doesn’t leave any mess at all!
- Sidewalk chalk - perfect for all ages.
- Art projects! These can vary a ton based on age - but things like making necklaces, paper mache, making a card for a grandparent or family member, making a collage, etc are all ideas to start with.
- Depending on the age of your kids, bake or cook together! Kids LOVE being involved and helping to measure/pour when possible (and safe, of course).
Play Outside
Photo courtesy of thefamilydinnerproject.org
One of the obvious favorites, get outside when the weather permits. Here were a ton of favorites listed in the group:
- Go for a hike!
- Visit a neighborhood pool or park.
- Lawn games at home or at the park! Favorites included washers, flying kites, softball and kickball, cornhole, etc.
- Visit a local zoo or farm.
- Find local orchards where you can pick apples, peaches, etc.
- Set up a scavenger hunt around the yard or neighborhood (this can be done indoors too on super hot days!).
- Plant a garden together.
- Have a picnic dinner during sunset.
- Go fishing!
Other Fun Ideas…
Photo courtesy of delish.com
- Play tourist in your own city! Check out places you have never been before.
- Make ice cream, popsicles, or smoothie bowls together.
- Take a walk or ride bikes in a different neighborhood
- Have a camp out (in the living room or backyard)
- Visit a Farmer’s Market and pick out fresh produce together.
- Take a trip to a museum or aquarium.
- Play hide and go seek.
What are some other favorites you would add to this list?
Molly Tilove
@mollyeledge
Summer is halfway over, and if you’re anything like me – some days feel like Groundhog’s Day. We’ve done the same thing day after day, and we are ready for a CHANGE UP! We asked the ladies in the Mother’s of Fitness Facebook Group (come join us!) to share some of their favorite summer activities […]
Written by travel blogger Tiffany Ammerman
From local 5ks to hikes in far-off, exotic destinations, many of our planned fitness challenges have been added to the list of canceled activities this year. Initially, it might be disheartening to have to remove these events from your calendar, but don’t lose hope. Many competitions and challenges are simply moving to a virtual platform so attendees don’t have to experience fitness FOMO.
Check out these five fun, fitness-related challenges for the summer and get your fitness fix!
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Paddle Boarding Competition
For those of you who are heavily involved in the sport of paddle boarding, check out this fundraising event for the World Wildlife Fund! The Panda Paddle helps to support the conservation work of WWF and is typically held in San Diego, California. The organizers of the competition stated, “While we're sad to not be there in person with our great community of nature loving paddle enthusiasts, we'd like to recreate the friendly competition with our Virtual Paddle Competition which we can now open up to other paddle sports.” If you’re ready to get out on the water for a good cause, sign up for the Panda Paddle HERE.
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Limitless Vertical Challenge
This intense endurance challenge focusing on vertical gain is perfect for those who love to continuously push themselves and their physical boundaries. Starting at Level One and moving through to Level Six, you can register, log your vertical gain and attempt to get yourself to “Double Everest”. Run Steep tells us, “Like other virtual races and challenges, you are in control. You get to design your course, choose your location, mix up locations each day as you like, and keep track of your progress through the week. Keep us updated each day and #ShareYourSummit as you trek toward the next level.” Ready to put some elevation gain under your belt? Click HERE to get more info on the Limitless Vertical Challenge.
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Virtual Marathon
Offering a 10k, half marathon, 30k and a full marathon option, this virtual race benefitting Blueprints of Love will have you running for a good cause in no time. This virtual race not only facilitates your marathon but it also helps to train and encourage you during the process. If you want to help out a great cause and get in some fitness, check out the virtual race with lots of options HERE.
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Camino de Santiago Virtual Pilgrimage
The ancient 480 mile pilgrimage located in Spain beckons many people of all walks of life and all fitness levels. Unfortunately, the Camino has closed for the year but that doesn’t mean you can’t create your own hiking challenge in your own hometown. Each time you log your miles, it inches you across the map and lets you see, virtually, what you would be seeing if you were on this legendary trail using Google Street View. You’ll also receive virtual postcards which give more information about each location you reach on the trail. This pilgrimage is meant to be an intensely personal experience for each pilgrim so not only is it a fitness challenge but it also serves as a mental journey. Start your Camino today by clicking HERE.
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Swim the Distance
Whether it’s in the local lake or your own backyard pool, this swimming challenge will have you clocking some serious distance. After you register, you choose your distance and you have the month to document and complete your challenge. This virtual competition is perfect for those who are looking for some virtual fitness motivation. Clock your miles HERE.
C O N C L U S I O N
Whether you’re supporting a fundraiser or attempting to push your own physical boundaries, these virtual fitness challenges will have you motivated and staying fit during a time of many competition cancellations. These challenges are perfect for both beginners who are just getting started on their fitness journey as well as professional athletes who are looking for another sport to add to their repertoire. Join the league of other virtual athletes and start working towards your goal today!
Cover photo courtesy of @the_goodish_traveler
Additional images courtesy of @pandapaddle and @aravaiparunning
About the Author:
Georgia native Tiffany Ammerman is the thru-hiker and CrossFitter behind the travel blog The Goodish Traveler. She spends the majority of her time traveling, eating sushi and searching for hiking trails. When she's not blogging, Ammerman can be found training at CrossFit LaGrange and teaching art to kids.
> > > Stay well.
Written by travel blogger Tiffany Ammerman From local 5ks to hikes in far-off, exotic destinations, many of our planned fitness challenges have been added to the list of canceled activities this year. Initially, it might be disheartening to have to remove these events from your calendar, but don’t lose hope. Many competitions and challenges are […]
Written by travel blogger Tiffany Ammerman
Summer vacation may look a whole lot different for many of us this year—with beaches closing and tourist destinations no longer receiving visitors—but that doesn’t mean that we can’t still make the most of this season. Whether you’re redecorating your meditation room or paddleboarding out on the lake, check out these cool, unique products that’ll help heat up your summer!
Homemade Finds
While many of us are spending our quarantine time redecorating and decluttering our space, the purchasing of homemade products has made a huge resurgence lately. From websites such as Etsy, Uncommon Goods and UK-based website Folksy, to Bali-based co-ops, you’ll be sure to find some useful items you’ll love. Artisans post anything from shibori dyed beach towels to custom pet-themed plant pots for sale on these creative websites. Discover a unique conversation piece to add to your space!
- Wangi Asri Balinese Women's Co-Op: Wangi meaning aroma and Asri meaning beautiful, the women of the Wangi Asri Co-Op in Bali are whipping up essential oil carry bags from vintage, batiked Balinese sarongs. Each one is unique! So next time you’re on the go, be sure to bring along your favorite essential oils in your one-of-a-kind patchwork bag! Not only are you helping these women earn an income but you’re also supporting the hearty artisan culture of Ubud, Bali. Check them out at @wangi_asri on Instagram.
- Aya Textile Craftworks: Based out of Tel Aviv, Israel, Aya Textile is bringing creative shibori tote bags and blankets to the artisan fueled website, Etsy. Each one is a unique, indigo creation that will have your workspace or meditation room filled with good energy. Find them on Instagram at @ayeletiontef.
- Simply AC-Handcrafted Skin & Mind Care: Specializing in handmade skincare goods with simple ingredients, Simply AC strives to create beautiful, natural bath salts, face masks and body scrubs to help you pamper yourself. Check out their Instagram worthy geode bath bombs to up your #selfcaresunday game. Head on over to @shopsimplyac for your next skincare haul.
Wearable Summer Trends
The days are getting longer and the temperature is rising which means it’s time to get outside! First, check your local CDC recommendations on whether you’re able to safely enjoy some fun outdoor time before you venture out. If you’re permitted some time outside, we’ve found some products that are able to handle kayaking down the river or getting in some surf. These trending summer products are down for the ride!
- Freestyle Shark Leash Watches: This original watersports watch exudes some serious So-Cal vibes. With tons of different, bright colors, you’ll be sure to find one to match your swimsuit. Not only do they have analog watches but they also have clips for your Apple Watch if you’d prefer a more tech look. Loved by beach bums worldwide, you’ll definitely be ready for the waves! Find them at @freestylewatches on Instagram.
- Faherty Brand: Eco-conscious and family owned, this brand creates cozy clothes with the beach in mind. From their go-anywhere, water resistant 'All-Day Hat' to their board shorts made of recycled bottles, you’ll be glad you picked up a Faherty original. Check them out at @fahertybrand on Instagram.
- Wolfgang Man & Beast: Don’t think we forgot about your furry best friend! American-made leashes, collars and outdoor gear will have you and your four-legged pal ready for adventure. Wolfgang has loads of unique patterns to choose from. Check out the Huntington Sock as well as the foldable Field Dog Bowl and get ready for your next mountain trek! You can find them at @wolfgangmanandbeast.
Products to Splurge On
Sometimes it’s nice to purchase an investment piece to add to your lifetime collection. While expensive on the front end, these products should last for some time and save you from having to repurchase the same product over and over. So whether you’re sitting by your backyard pool or traversing some serious peaks, check out these timeless outdoors inspired products.
- YETI Tundra Haul: Introducing some wheels and a welded handle into the equation, the YETI Tundra has been updated into a handy, easy to haul version. Coming in at $400 at it’s retail value, this cooler is truly an investment piece. You’ll not likely be replacing it anytime soon, so throw in some cans of FitAid and get going! Indulge yourself and head over to @yeti.
- Pendleton Woolen Mills Spa Towel: Since 1863, this stalwart of woolen goods has found itself representing Portland, Oregon, with it’s National Parks themed patterns and nods to Native American designs and legends. Pick up the super-cozy Pendleton Spa Towel for your next trip to the lake and you’ll be glad you invested! Hop on over to @pendletonwm to find an array of beautiful wool products.
- High Society Freerider Paddleboards: Based in Aspen, Colorado, High Society can help you gear up for your next paddleboarding adventure. These inflatable, easy to transport paddleboards boast the ability to hold coolers as well as your favorite pup! Coming in at just over $1,000, you may be able to snag their buy-one-get-one-free deal if you hurry over to @highsocietyfreeride.
C O N C L U S I O N
Getting creative with our summer plans is going to be a must this year, with many traditional modes of recreation canceled or postponed. Hopefully you’ll find something fun, creative and useful in our carefully curated product list to help jumpstart your summer adventures! Please stay safe and be kind out there, everyone.
All images are the property of respective brand, all rights reserved.
About the Author:
Georgia native Tiffany Ammerman is the thru-hiker and CrossFitter behind the travel blog The Goodish Traveler. She spends the majority of her time traveling, eating sushi and searching for hiking trails. When she's not blogging, Ammerman can be found training at CrossFit LaGrange and teaching art to kids.
> > > Stay well.
Written by travel blogger Tiffany Ammerman Summer vacation may look a whole lot different for many of us this year—with beaches closing and tourist destinations no longer receiving visitors—but that doesn’t mean that we can’t still make the most of this season. Whether you’re redecorating your meditation room or paddleboarding out on the lake, check […]
Say "goodbye" to the days of feeling stuck between achieving your summer fitness goals and having a cocktail with friends. Now, thanks to the Keto-Rita, you can say "yes" to both! Here's our recipe for a sugar-free summer treat that will change the way you think about staying on track with your macros through all your social engagements this summer.
Meet the Keto-Rita, your perfect macro-friendly summertime libation! Made with FITAID ZERO, it's naturally sugar-free and happily sweetened with Monk Fruit and Stevia. Each can contains only 5 calories, NO sugar, no artificial sweeteners—only the good stuff & essential vitamins and nutrients your body never knew it could get from a cocktail. Looking and feeling your best while having a little fun has never tasted so good!
(Yields: 1 serving)
1-2 ounces of premium Tequila
½ ounce of Cointreau
½ can of FITAID ZERO
Squeeze of fresh lime
Ice (on the rocks/blended)
Coarse salt (optional)
1. Pour half a can of FITAID ZERO into a large glass.
2. Add desired amount of Tequila, Cointreau, and fresh lime juice.
3. Pour over ice or blend (with additional ice).
4. Serve with a salted rim (optional).
Enjoy!
Learn more about the new sugar-free Recovery Blend FITAID ZERO and shop now at LIFEAIDBevCo.com/Zero
> > > Live well.
Say “goodbye” to the days of feeling stuck between achieving your summer fitness goals and having a cocktail with friends. Now, thanks to the Keto-Rita, you can say “yes” to both! Here’s our recipe for a sugar-free summer treat that will change the way you think about staying on track with your macros through all your […]
By: Nikki Dagot | June 2019
It’s finally summertime! Many of us wait all year for pool parties, beach days, camping and outdoor fun with family and friends. Personally, I love summer because it’s so easy to get outdoors and find a variety of exercises to help you reach your fitness goals while enjoying the sunshine: a jog along the beach, laps in your local swimming pool, a friendly tennis match, or attending an outdoor yoga class.
I want to start off by saying I am not the healthiest, most active person out there. But I thoroughly enjoy being outdoors, feeling energized, and paying attention to how both my mind and body feel. Do I go to the gym daily? No. Do I eat sugar? Yes (I love cookies). But life is about balance and feeling healthy on the inside.
That’s why I am a big fan of setting up smart, attainable goals for myself, especially during the summer when there are so many extra activities, food and fun that can distract us from our fitness goals. There’s no need to get extreme with your workout plans, especially during a season when your days are often jammed packed with outdoor activities to help keep your body moving. Currently, I have been going to the gym a few times a week, stretching, and going on walks around my neighborhood. When I start to feel too tired, I remind myself that even if I do something active after work for 20-30 minutes, it’s better than nothing so that’s a “win.”
HERE ARE MY TOP PICKS FOR
Summer Necessities for a Healthy, Active Lifestyle:
- Attainable nutrition & fitness goals are a MUST. Make a plan, keep it simple, and you’re more likely to stick to it so you can crush your goals this summer (which always gets me about setting new goals)!
- Workout clothes that I feel confident in! Because when you feel better, you move better and live better. Summer goal: feel good about moving your body.
- My favorite kanteen or water bottle filled with ice-cold water to help me stay hydrated.
- An upbeat playlist on my iPhone to help get me pumped up to crush my workouts.
- An ice-cold FITAID ZERO as a macro-friendly post-workout treat or a refreshing 5-calorie soda replacement.
When it comes to nutrition, one smart addition to my grocery list this summer has been items that taste great, are refreshing and satisfying yet won’t blow my macros out of the water. That’s where FITAID ZERO comes in! It’s only 5 calories, 1g of carbs, and helps my body recover properly after I finish a workout. It’s also the perfect soda replacement or mixer when served ice-cold on a hot summer day. Bonus: it’s made without any artificial sweeteners, NO sucralose, NO aspartame—happily sweetened with Monk Fruit & Stevia, made with only the good stuff your body needs (glutamine, glucosamine, BCAAs, electrolytes, CoQ10, turmeric, quercetin, green tea extract (for 45mg of natural caffeine & energy), vitamins C, D, & E, and B-complex).
SUMMER SNACKIN'
If healthy eating is a challenge for you, here are some snacks and meal ideas I find fast and easy to help stay on track during the summer. Light and refreshing is key for those hot months, and meals that are easy to prepare so that you’re not wasting too much time in the kitchen are always a plus! Reach for fresh fruits, veggies, granola and nuts—all great snacks for outdoor adventures—as well as smoothies that you can take with you on the go! I also love a quick salad or wrap you can throw together — tuna, chicken, or veggie & hummus for a vegan option. Don’t forget that with summer, comes BBQ’s, pool parties and picnics. Be sure to treat yourself every now and then because life is all about balance.
Wishing you a safe & healthy ACTIVE summer!
About the Author: Nikki Dagot is a 28-year-old food blogger who lives in Orlando, Florida.
You can follower her on Instagram @repeatandeat or on her blog at: www.repeatandeat.com
> > > Live well.
By: Nikki Dagot | June 2019 It’s finally summertime! Many of us wait all year for pool parties, beach days, camping and outdoor fun with family and friends. Personally, I love summer because it’s so easy to get outdoors and find a variety of exercises to help you reach your fitness goals while enjoying the […]
As the coach of some of the fittest athletes on Earth & a successful box owner, Ben Bergeron shares the five phases of coaching which are imperative to the development of a great coach.
Read Ben Bergeron's full article here.
Hunter McIntyre is Forging Greatness on the Road to a Wildcard Spot at the 2019 CrossFit Games Follow Hunter’s journey as he trains with top CrossFit Games athletes and trainers like Jacob Heppner and Chris Hinshaw. Watch latest episodes, learn more and sign the petition to help #GetHunterToTheGames! Visit the website here. . The Deeper […]