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Exercising outside a great way to relax and get fit this summer

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Jen Roberts of Hanover gets her bike ready to ride at the YMCA in Hanover. Roberts rides with the Hanover Cyclers (photo by Kate Penn)

Jen Roberts of Hanover gets her bike ready to ride at the YMCA in Hanover. Roberts rides with the Hanover Cyclers (photo by Kate Penn)


Exercising outside can seem daunting without the structure of your local gym. But experts suggest stepping outdoors can be one of the best ways to train new muscles while enjoying nature with your family.

Whether you want to bike, jog or kayak this summer, there are plenty of parks and clubs to explore.

Kyle Willet, president of the Hanover Cyclers, has been riding his bike throughout York County for about two years. The 110-member club meets regularly to bike anywhere from 15 to 30 miles throughout the region.

But it isn’t always about the physical benefits, Willet said.

“A lot of us are in this for the social aspects,” he said.

Some rides, including a recent one from New Oxford to Gettysburg, made a pit stop for a pint of beer before heading back home.

The York County Heritage Rail Trail is one of the best places for cyclists to get started, Willet said.

Its smooth, flat surface is free of traffic and less intimidating than riding on the street, he said.

If you’re looking for more scenic workouts, hiking can be a great way to reach new heights.

Jim Hooper of the York Hiking Club said there are some great trails in just about every state park.

Some of the best places for beginners are Richard M. Nixon County Park or Lake Redman, both in Springfield Township, where shorter trails provide beautiful views without too much work.

If you’re new to hiking, Hooper said, make sure you have a good set of boots and carry plenty of water during the heat of the day. Some hikers also invest in a day pack to carry clothes, a first aid kit and extra clothes, because layering is best, Hooper said.

If the still waters of a lake are appealing, kayaking at Lake Redman is a good way for beginners to get on the water, said Mike Fobes, manager of natural resources with York County Parks. Kayaks can be rented at the park May through September.

Getting on the lake as opposed to a river is a good workout for the arms, Fobes said.

“You can’t rely on the current to carry you, so if you want to get from Point A to Point B, you have to work for it,” he said.

It’s a good idea to take someone who has kayaked before if you’re a first timer, Fobes said. There’s a certain level of grace required for getting in and out of the small boat, he said.

The lake is a great place to see bald eagles, a variety of geese and ducks, as well as plants along the shore, he added.

“I like to go out there by myself, or sometimes with my wife,” Fobes said. “There’s a calmness you find on the water.”

Safety first this summer

There are many benefits to exercising outside, said Sean Hermanns, an educator at Byrnes Health Education Center in York.

“Especially after being inside all winter, the sun can revitalize your body by giving you energy and a good dose of Vitamin D,” Hermanns said.

But be careful about working out too long in the sun, he said.

Sunscreen is important, especially for areas that are more susceptible to burning, such as the nose, ears, shoulders and upper back, Hermanns said. He also admitted his bare scalp has burned in the past.

Hydration, also an important factor, is tougher in the summer because bodies lose more fluid when there’s more sweat.

“People may not recognize how much they need to increase their water intake,” he said.

If there aren’t any water sources nearby, Hermanns said, bring a water bottle.

He also added that people should keep allergies, bugs and potential injuries in mind when moving around outside.

“Make sure you can get the help you need if you’re alone,” he said.

It’s helpful to let someone know where you’re going or carry a cellphone during certain workouts.


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