It’s a Sunshine Day – Get Active!
Posted by Kelli Arruzzo on Mon, Mar 22, 2010
A few weeks ago, I was bemoaning the weather, but Saturday marked the first official day of Spring, so I've decided it's time to start washing away the winter blues and preparing for the upcoming warm weather! Whenever the warm weather comes knocking at your door, be prepared to get up, get out, and enjoy the sunshine!
Why get up and get out?
Other than giving yourself the opportunity to be active, burn calories, and lose weight, your skin produces Vitamin D through sun exposure and your body uses it in many vital functions, including absorbing calcium and bone growth. It is helpful in treating or preventing autism, autoimmune diseases, cancer, chronic pain, depression, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, flu, and osteoporosis.
What you can do?
Thirty minutes of unprotected sun exposure, twice a week, will give you plenty of Vitamin D - make sure you slather on sunscreen during times of prolonged exposure to protect your skin. On a bright, sunny day, consider:
- Going for a walk: As short or as far as you would like, a few extra steps a day will help your heart and cardiovascular system. An hour long leisurely stroll can burn 150 to 200 calories.*
- Starting a garden: Pick a spot that will see a lot of sunshine and get to work. Onions, peas, and spinach can be planted anytime, while crops like lettuce, carrots, broccoli, and beets can be planted in early spring. Not only will you be getting physical, you'll be giving yourself healthy options to eat in the future. One hour of gardening can burn about 320 calories.*
- Be a kid again: Pick a spot on the grass, lay on your back, and look up at the clouds. Use your imagination to figure out what they resemble. The laughter you're sure to generate is good for your heart and the relaxation you'll feel could burn about 70 calories, if you do this for an hour.*
- Wash your car: Wipe away the last remnants of winter and give your car a shine. If it takes you an hour you'll burn about 270 calories* - not including the water fight that is bound to ensue.
*All estimations are based on a 180 pound individual and should be adjusted accordingly. Calorie counts were taken from DiabetesCare.net's Exercise Tracker.
Disclaimer: Consult a physician or qualified health provider before starting any type of exercise program.