SALT LAKE CITY — Summertime is finally here! Many people would rather spend time outdoors enjoying the nice weather with friends and family than pumping out a couple of squats next to someone who clearly needs some clinical-strength deodorant in their life.

Skipping the gym can typically be justified during the colder months, but during the summer it's nice showing off some quad definition to remind the neighborhood kids that adults can, and will, outrun them the second they hear the ice cream truck. We don’t have time to wait in line as Timmy decides between a Choco Taco and a Firecracker Popsicle.

Here are some summer activities that will keep you in shape so you can enjoy your ice cream truck treat of choice, guilt free.

1. Swimming

Stay cool and work in a quick sweat? Sounds perfect! There are a lot of different ways to work your muscles and get your heart rate up in the pool. The water is one of the best fitness tools because it adds resistance, is easy on your joints and burns more calories in less time.

Clinical exercise physiologist Mary Sanders, Ph.D. says a pool workout gives you “better balance, agility and endurance, which is a great confidence boost for anyone who has shied away from exercise in the past.”

Some beginner-friendly pool workouts don’t require you to swim a single lap and still work your legs and core.

Want to spice up your typical laps? Ditch the kickboard and blow up a beach ball! Hold the ball out in front of you and use your abs and back muscles to push the ball halfway underwater. Add an extra burn in your abs and bring the ball underwater as you crunch your knees to meet the ball. It may not look very graceful, but you’ll definitely feel sore the next day.

2. Hiking

Salt Lake City is home to some beautiful hikes of all different intensities and lengths. It’s a great (and cheap) way to get your family outside and appreciate nature. Just an hour exploring Mill Creek Canyon with your furry friend will leave them too tired to even bark at the mailcarrier.

Related:

12 dog-friendly hiking trails near Salt Lake City

You love your new downtown studio apartment, but Mr. Pickles would trade all the exposed-brick loft-iness in the world for a good solid outdoor frolic. If a stroll around the city neighborhood is proving insufficient, here are a few great destinations for you and your rambling pup.

A United Kingdom study even found spending a few hours every week in nature gives a positive boost to our mental and physical health.

Since Utah has no shortage of hills, your ankles, calves, thighs and glutes will build more muscles than walking on a flat surface. Also, walking on a slightly uneven surface will naturally engage your core.

3. Yoga

You can look up a yoga tutorial to stretch out or isolate any muscle group you want for however long you want, and as difficult as you want — all for free and from the comfort of your own home.

Want to be around other people who enjoy twisting themselves into pretzel shapes? A quick Google search found a ton of free, local classes throughout the summer. Several yoga studios are also offering summer deals for new members.

4. Backyard games

Summer cookouts are incomplete without a few rounds of cornhole.

While throwing mini bean bags onto a wooden board may not bring you much closer to a set of washboard abs, it’ll keep you up and active. Also, a little “friendly” competition will get your blood pumping and breaking out a little victory dance will burn those extra calories.

5. Biking

Whether you’re someone who wants to dust off your mountain bike or be more eco-friendly on your daily commute, biking is a great way to get moving.

Like swimming, biking is easier on your joints and actually increases your joint mobility. If you’re looking for a way to get your cardio in and you avoid running like the plague, a quick bike ride during your lunch break could be the perfect fat-burner.

6. Rock climbing

Utah is one of the few states that provides an array of options for people interested in rock climbing.

Just starting off and want to build your arm strength? Check out your closest indoor facility and learn the ropes. Want to spend time in nature? Utah is home to both beginner-friendly and challenging routes both locally and in national parks.

Those who are afraid of heights could work on their mental strength and use the physical challenge to face their fear.

7. Just take a walk

If you’re lucky enough to work in downtown Salt Lake City, there are tons of parks and restaurants within walking distance from the office to help you sneak in some exercise during the week.

Spending time outside during your lunch break will give your mind a much-needed refresh to help you push through the rest of the day.

Don’t have that option during the day? Walk with your family to a nearby playground after dinner to help with digestion and spend some additional quality time. If you’re feeling extra active, play with your kids once you get to the playground and be the neighborhood cool parent — or embarrass them in front of their friends.

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