Have you ditched the gym for a workout session in your garden? According to a survey of 1,331 adults carried out by garden and furniture e-tailer Alfresia.co.uk, the never-ending heatwave has resulted in one in five Britons 'workout-proofing' their gardens. In real terms, this means spending that gym membership on transforming tired spaces into somewhere suitable for fitness.
According to Nic Jones, head of digital at Alfresia.co.uk, 'An outdoor area is about so much more than just being a place to sit and read or enjoy al fresco dining, it is a place to live and improve our lifestyles.' Exercising outdoors is a great way to soak up vitamin D and increasing levels of endorphins, too.
Whether you're inspired by the 45 per cent doing al fresco yoga or the 62 per cent turning up the heat with some outdoor HIIT sessions, what could you do to get your garden gym-ready?
Reorganising and decluttering is a must. This may mean getting rid of unused garden furniture or toys your children have grown out of and grouping any remaining items together in order to create a large, open space.
Even those with smaller outdoor spaces, such a simple patio or balcony, can ensure their space is clear before investing in a fitness mat and carry out a morning stretch or quick cardio session after a day in the office.
Mowing the lawn, keeping plant life healthy and ensuring that you have a shady spot for when you need it are a given, but shopping for brightly coloured garden furniture that's perfect for relaxing in following a workout is a big motivator, too.
And if you're concerned about staying motivated, working out with a friend is a great option. According to Alfresia.co.uk, more than one in five are making working out a social event by inviting friends and family over to train with them. Why not give it a go? Ready nana?
