Finding the time to exercise can be difficult, but that doesn't mean you should skip it.  We aren't going to recommend how much time you should spend exercising - that's something you should discuss with your provider.  Instead, we'd like to offer some easy alternatives to going to the gym, some of which can be done at home at any time.

Swimming

The Pacific Northwest has one of the largest watersheds in the country, hundreds of lakes, and (for those who prefer it) community pools available all summer long.  Why not take advantage of these resources by trading in your leggings or athletic shorts for a swimming suit?  It's a great way to beat the heat, tone muscles, strengthen your heart, and build lung capacity.  Plus, with virtually no impact force on any of your joints, your knees and ankles won't hate you the next morning.  Just keep these friendly tips in mind:

Don't go alone.  It's always safer to swim with a friend.

Bring your sunscreen.

Know your limits.  Swimming isn't like running, if you use up all of your energy swimming out from shore, you won't have enough to make it back.

SUP, Kayaks, and Canoes

Swimming not your thing?  You can still take advantage of all the water in the area by investing in (or renting) a human-powered vessel like an SUP, kayak, or canoe.  These offer great ways to exercise, especially in groups, without it seeming like exercise.  As you take in the beautiful views the area has to offer, you'll use muscles in your back, shoulders, arms, core, and legs.  SUPs, once thought to be an ocean-only sport, are quickly becoming a favorite here in the PNW.  If you're feeling particularly adventurous, why toss out an anchor on your SUP and try some yoga on the water?  The water makes balancing far more difficult, which means a more challenging workout for you.

For a few quick safety reminders, please see "swimming" above.

Biking

We are fortunate enough to have some of the best biking trails in the country within just a few miles.  For the experienced riders out there, mountain trails offer both challenge and excitement as you navigate narrow rocky paths through some of the most beautiful terrain in the country.  Want a smoother ride?  Check out the Centennial Trail or head east and visit the Route of the Hiawatha for a truly unique experience.  Remember to bring a headlamp, however, as you'll pass through multiple tunnels, one of which is over a mile long.

Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi

These are great forms of exercise that focus on breathing, balance, flexibility, and core strength.  We love them because they are relatively easy to learn, can be done by people of all ages and abilities, and need little to no equipment.  Although classes are recommended for beginners (to be sure you're doing things properly and safely) these classes can be done through videos and/or online which allows you to work around your schedule.  If you are interested in any of these, there are plenty of opportunities for beginners classes offered at local gyms, the area colleges, and other private venues.

Improvise

There are plenty of ways to exercise while at home doing every day chores.  Simply maintaining your house and yard can provide these opportunities.  Instead of hopping on a riding mower, consider using a push-mower instead.  Add a few more trips up and down the stairs to give your legs a better workout.  Grab a few cans of soup out of the pantry and work on arm strength while watching your favorite show.  Give the dog a walk around the yard or around the block.  Play with your kids.  A game of tag is a great way to bond with your kids, have fun, and exercise.  Remember, most of what they do in life will be learned now, as children.  Start them off right by showing them the importance of exercise at every age.