Pickleball
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. So much so that there are probably tennis courts in your community that are now being used much more often for this fun, simple game. Why the growth in popularity? First and foremost, pickleball is great exercise! It helps with coordination and cardiovascular fitness. But it’s not so strenuous that it is exclusive to the young or the athletic. In fact, the fastest-growing demographic playing pickleball is baby boomers. A slightly older group is gravitating towards the game because it’s simple to play, is more social than strenuous, and is easy on joints and muscles. And a bonus? You can get everything you need to start playing for under $200.
Hiking
One of the many benefits of living in Canada is how close we are to beautiful, natural hiking trails. Hiking is a great activity that is adaptable to any skill and comfort level. Try using a trail finder where you can find trails in your region that take anywhere from 30 minutes to over a week with lots of variety in distance, elevation and difficulty. Plus, hiking has a number of health benefits. Not only is it great for your heart health, endurance and strength, but science has also shown that hiking has “significant positive effects on mental health, especially those with depressive tendencies”.legal bug1 The most important thing in hiking is to wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water. Depending on where you’re hiking, you may also want to do some research on what wildlife you might encounter and how best to stay safe.
Frisbee
The origins of the frisbee go back nearly 100 years, but the simplicity and joy of the game has never changed. Frisbee is an easy way to get some exercise and spend time with loved ones, as both a physical activity and a relaxing pastime. Perfect for summer weather, frisbee can be played with everyone from young kids to those with varying levels of ability, and it can help you develop core strength and hand-eye coordination. And the true beauty of frisbee is that all you need to get started is one disc and a little open area.
Yoga
There is probably no physical activity that has gone more mainstream in the last couple of decades than yoga, and yet it is one of the most ancient practices we have documentation of. In fact, the origins of yoga can be traced back over 5,000 years.legal bug2 Today, yoga studios are everywhere, and they offer a variety of different classes and styles. There are plenty of beginners’ options to get you started. While there are obvious health benefits, like increased strength and flexibility, yoga also has significant mental health benefits, helping to relieve stress and anxiety, and even improve low self-esteem.legal bug3 And for anyone feeling uncertain about their ability to participate in yoga, there is adaptive yoga. Adaptive yoga tailors the practice to each individual need, accounting for a lack of mobility or flexibility, or any other issue that might prevent you from getting started.
Running (and Walking!)
Starting a running routine can be intimidating, especially for those who have never tried it before. But for people that are looking for an inexpensive and easy way to get outdoors and get some exercise, there’s nothing better. Luckily, it’s easy to get started. The most important thing is getting the right pair of shoes – running shoes are specifically designed for this activity – and even wearing other athletic shoes like cross-trainers or basketball shoes can do more harm than good. From there, there are plenty of online programs to help you get started. In fact, “couch to 5K” is a common term in the running world! Start off slow by mixing running and walking in short intervals and When you’re ready, don’t forget to join the RBC Race for the Kids, which brings communities together to run, walk and wheel in support of youth charities.
No matter how you plan to get active this summer, the most important thing is to just get started! And when you’re buying your gear, don’t forget to sign up for Avion Rewards to earn cash back, points and savings.
This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.
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