I hope I’m not the only one when I say this, but I’m ready for some snow. Don’t get me wrong, I love summer and the activities that come with it, especially here in the Lakes Region. I’m lucky enough to spend the summers at a family camp on Lake Winnipesaukee and I go on regular treks to play in the ocean. It could just be the Gunstock Ski Club coach in me, or maybe winter is in my DNA (my birthday is at the end of January after all) but as the July temps climb, my mind wanders back to the slopes, and I start to think of what I could be doing to get in shape for the season ahead. Here are five fun summer activities that can help you stay in shape for the season ahead – no gym required!
1. Swimming: Head to the pool or take to the lake! This refreshing full body workout is great for your cardiovascular fitness, strength and endurance – all big factors if you’re getting as many runs in as you hope. You can access public beaches in the Lakes Region at several places: Ellacoya State Park in Gilford, and Weirs Beach in Laconia.
2. Hiking: Take advantage of the warmer weather and hit the trails. Hiking can help strengthen your legs and core, and with the Belknap Range located right here in the Lakes Region, there are ample hiking trails nearby and no shortage of views of Lake Winnipesaukee and beyond. Gunstock serves as a great access point for hiking in the Lakes Region, being located in the middle of the Belknap Range.
3. Yoga: Incorporating yoga into your summer routine can help improve your flexibility, balance and core strength – all building blocks in the foundation of skiing. Plus, yoga can help reduce muscle soreness and prevent the risk of injury. Besides, it’s always good to stretch after that swimming and hiking you’ve been doing! If you’re in the need for some guidance, Active Zen Yoga in Laconia is a great starting point with classes for all levels.
4. Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Not only is stand-up paddleboarding a great way to explore the many bodies of water in the Lakes Region, it’s also a core and arm workout that will help test your balance and stability. Are you visiting Lake Winnipesaukee for the weekend? There are several places nearby that offer paddleboard rentals. Try out Dive Winnipesaukee in Wolfeboro and SUPNH Paddle & Bike Co., located right down the road in Alton!
5. Cycling: A Tour de France qualifier you need not be! Hop on your bike and hit the trails for a low-impact cardio workout that will help strengthen your legs. Have a mountain bike? Riding Gunstock’s large network of Nordic ski trails is a great way to get out in the trees with terrain for the novice or expert. Prefer something a little gentler? Across the lake in Wolfeboro is the Cotton Valley Rail Trail which is a 12-mile, recreational walking and biking path. With its marginal inclines and hard-packed surface, this family-friendly and accessible path has something for everyone.
Don’t let the summer heat slow you down – enjoy the outdoors, stay active and have fun preparing for the season ahead. Gunstock’s opening day of the 24/25 Season is slated for December 6!