Photo by Catherine Johnson

The sun is finally out and you should be too! Outdoor fitness has so much more to offer than the gym, and summer is a great time to break out of the indoors and experience all the different ways you can stay fit.

Here’s a list of activities to try this summer that will burn calories, with the added bonus of providing vitamin D and great memories.

Beach volleyball: Heading to the beach? As relaxing as it is to just throw down a towel and soak up the sun, why not grab a bunch of friends and a volleyball to stay active? Playing a game of volleyball will help work a variety of different muscles.

Hiking: Unlike running on a treadmill or the track, hiking outside can be a great workout because of the varying terrain. Why not find new places to hike, and explore beautiful views? Hiking is also a great way to get exercise while catching up with your friends.

SUP (Stand Up Paddle) boarding: I recently took on this activity, and I loved it. The best part is you’re getting an amazing upper-body and core workout without even really realizing you’re exercising. And when you’ve had enough, you can jump into the water for a swim to cool down.

Register for a race: There are all sorts of races happening around Ottawa this time of year. Make it part of your summer bucket list to train for and complete a race. Sign up for the Scotiabank Canada Day Road Races, or the Free Saturday 5K Series where you can test your stamina. For more information about runs in Ottawa visit: http://www.runottawa.ca/races-and-events/event-calendar/page/2

Athletics classes at Carleton: For those of you who don’t want to break away from the gym, you can still try something new this summer. Switch up your regular workout routine by trying out a fitness class, like yoga or zumba.

There are so many outdoor activities to choose from that can improve your fitness while being enjoyable at the same time. There are still two more months of summer, so why not give one or more of these fitness ideas a try?