Get Fit This Summer: The Best Home Exercises and Setup Tips for Success {UPDATED]

[UPDATED in 2025]

With the sun shining—or at least making an effort—summer is the perfect time to invigorate your fitness routine. While summer provides an excellent opportunity to embrace outdoor activities and enjoy the warmer weather, staying active is essential year-round.

Whether you’re a seasoned fitness enthusiast or someone looking for inspiration to start moving, this short blog offers plenty of ideas to help you make the most of summer.

From energising workouts to creating a personal fitness haven at home, there’s no shortage of ways to feel good, stay healthy, and soak up that precious sunshine.

The Benefits of Exercising in the Summer

Summer invites us to embrace the outdoors and naturally encourages movement. The longer, sunnier days provide an ideal backdrop for exercising, whether it’s a brisk walk, an adventurous hike, or an invigorating HIIT session in the garden. But the advantages go far beyond enjoying the fresh air.

Here’s why exercising in summer is a win-win:

Summer Exercises to Try at Home

You don’t need a gym membership to stay fit during summer. There are plenty of exercises you can try at home, tailored to your fitness level and preferences. Here are four engaging workouts to get you started:

Bootcamp-Style Outdoor Workout

Love variety and intensity? A bootcamp-style workout offers a dynamic mix of exercises in one session. To get started, consider investing in basic equipment like a skipping rope, an agility ladder, and some free weights. Many fitness apps, such as FitOn and Peloton Digital, provide ready-made bootcamp routines, so you don’t need to design your own programme.

Marcus a PT from Dunstable says outdoor summer workout can kickstart brand new habits that can hold fast throughout the year.

"loads of my long-term clients signed up to my Bootcamp classes in the summer and have stayed with me for years" he shares. "outdoor workouts can be real motivators to keep regular exercise going"

Bodyweight Exercise Circuit

If space or budget is tight, bodyweight exercises are your best friend. They require no equipment but can be surprisingly effective for building strength and endurance. Create a circuit with moves like push-ups, lunges, glute bridges, squats, leg raises, and mountain climbers. Adjust the number of repetitions to suit your fitness level and aim to complete two or three rounds for a full-body workout.

HIIT Training

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is perfect for those short on time but eager to see results. Alternating between intense bursts of activity and short rest periods, HIIT can improve cardiovascular fitness, reduce body fat, and boost metabolism. Apps like Aaptiv and Daily Burn offer guided sessions that can be done in as little as 15 minutes.

Upper Body Strength Training

To build upper body strength, consider investing in a few key pieces of equipment, such as dumbbells, a barbell, and a utility bench. Start with lighter weights to master proper form before gradually increasing the resistance. Incorporating moves like bench presses, overhead presses, and rows will help you tone and strengthen your arms, shoulders, and chest.

6 Ways to Create a Fitness Space at Home

Creating a dedicated workout area at home can be a game-changer for your fitness journey. A personal fitness space doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive—even a small corner can work wonders. Here are six practical tips to transform your home into an inspiring workout haven:

1. Invest in Weatherproof Flooring

If you plan to exercise outdoors, durable and weather-resistant flooring is a must. Products like Sprung Antishock Outdoor Flooring Tiles are designed to withstand the elements, offering a combination of quality and affordability. These tiles also provide excellent shock absorption, protecting your joints during high-impact exercises.

2. Add Smart Storage Solutions

Keep your workout area tidy and clutter-free with clever storage options. Use vertical shelving, a squat rack with built-in storage, or even repurpose a bookshelf to organise your equipment. A clean, well-organised space can make your workouts feel more inviting and enjoyable.

3. Create a Workout Schedule

A dedicated fitness space is just the beginning; a structured workout plan helps you stay consistent. Write down your weekly exercise goals and share them with a friend or partner for added accountability. Better yet, make it a shared activity to stay motivated together.

4. Stock Up on Essentials

Think about your fitness objectives when choosing equipment. Free weights and resistance bands are great for strength training, while yoga mats and blocks can enhance flexibility and balance. If cardio is your focus, consider investing in a smart bike or rower from the Echelon range or opt for lightweight kit such as skipping ropes and slam balls.

5. Transform a Spare Room

If you’re lucky enough to have a spare room, why not convert it into a home gym? Lay down rubber flooring such as PRO Gym Flooring (from 11mm to 63mm) to protect your floors and reduce noise, add versatile equipment, and pay attention to lighting to create an energising atmosphere. Start small and build your collection as your fitness journey progresses.

6. Maximise Small Spaces

For those with limited room, creativity is key. A bedroom corner or living room nook can double as a workout zone. Even a small garage can create the ultimate garage gym.  Portable and foldable equipment, such as resistance bands or adjustable dumbbells, can make the most of tight spaces without compromising functionality.

Stay Active, Stay Motivated

Summer is the perfect time to embrace an active lifestyle, but remember, there’s no need to wait for sunny skies to prioritise your health. By incorporating regular exercise into your routine, you’ll not only boost your physical fitness but also improve your mental wellbeing.

Whether you’re creating a fitness space at home, exploring new workouts, or simply taking a daily stroll, the key is to find activities you enjoy and can stick with.

Start today, and let this summer be the season you revitalise your fitness journey.

Explore our Home Gym flooring and Gym Equipment for some ideas.