20 Summer Activities While Social Distancing

0

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic many public health officials continue emphasizing the importance of socially distancing ourselves from others, and mask wearing. However, as humans we crave socialization to keep ourselves sane during these stressful times. Studies have shown that isolation and few social interactions can negatively affect overall health and lead to depression, obesity, and high blood pressure. So how does one improve their social health during a pandemic? Try these social activities that you can do while practicing social distancing.

  • Fishing: There’s nothing better than the great outdoors, and enjoying nature with a friend makes it even more enjoyable. Fishing is a great way to benefit your health, and an even better way to practice social distancing, whether you and a friend are six feet apart on a dock or in two separate boats, fishing is a great way to socialize from a distance.
  • Skating: It doesn’t matter if you’re on a skateboard, scooter, or roller blades skating is a great way to social distance and enjoy the company of friends and family. See our more in depth articles on the top 10 health benefits of roller skating and how you can benefit from it while social distancing
  • Golfing: A classic spring or summer activity like golf can be enjoyed with friends either at a driving range or on a golf course. Golfing is also one of those sports that does not require close contact with others, so go out and experience the benefits of golf, enjoy the company, and social distance!
  • Ping pong: Did you know that an average ping pong table is nine feet long? Lucky for you six feet is the ideal length for social distancing. Ping Pong not only has many physical health benefits, but it’s also a great way to exercise and socialize during social distancing.
  • Paddle Boarding: Take a trip to the lake with some friends and practice social distancing on the water! A great outdoor sporting activity like paddle boarding can benefit your health in many different ways, and can also be a great social distancing activity.
  • Playing Catch: Whether you’re throwing a football, baseball, or tossing around a frisbee among friends, playing a simple game of catch is a great way to be outside, active, and practice social distancing.
  • Hiking: Connect with friends and with nature on a beautiful hike through the woods or mountains. Hiking is a great way to better your health and an even better way to stay active and stay close with friends through a distance. Be sure to hydrate yourself consistently and stay six feet apart.
  • Badminton: A great summer activity for kids and adults like badminton can have its benefits and the rules of the game also imply social distancing. A simple yet intense game of badminton isn’t just a physical activity, but also a great way to socialize with friends.
  • Hammocking: Climb a tree and place you and your friends hammock six feet apart to completely take in what nature has to offer. Hammocking can also provide many health benefits, and can allow you and your friends to hang out (literally) while practicing social distancing.
  • Cornhole: As you finish up your healthy picnic meal, a game of cornhole is a great way to interact and enjoy the company of your friends. Many don’t see the benefits that cornhole can offer, but in reality a game of cornhole is great for your mental health and a fun way to social distance.
  • Billiards: A classic game that’s typically found in small bars and pubs can also be a fun at home game that can be done while social distancing. The health benefits of this fun, friendly, and relaxing game is a great way to be active with friends without being too close to each other.
  • Stargazing: During these difficult times it’s easy to forget the simple things that we can do to keep ourselves sane, and the simplicity of looking up at the stars with a friend can be therapeutic and good for your health. Because of how simple stargazing is it’s an amazing way to practice social distancing with friends and family.
  • Painting: The best thing about painting is that everyone can gain the benefits of painting anywhere they want. Whether your indoors or outdoors, painting can be a fun and relaxing experience to do with your best friend at a distance.
  • Tennis: The best way to experience anaerobic and aerobic exercise is through tennis. It’s also one of those sports that you can enjoy with your friends without having to be in close contact, making it a great way to better your health and social distance.
  • Horseback riding: If you have the opportunity to go horseback riding, invite a friend as it is a tremendous way to not only improve your health, but also practice social distancing in the outdoors. Also see our article on the top destinations to go horseback riding.

Leave a Reply