Summer Means Longer Days and More Energy Expenditure
Summer is finally here! With longer daylight hours, warmer temperatures, and more opportunities to be outdoors, many people naturally become more active during the summer months. Whether it’s gardening, hiking, biking, swimming, walking the dog, or simply spending more time outside with family, summer often brings an increase in daily energy expenditure.
Research supports this seasonal shift in activity levels. BMC Public Health found that both light physical activity and moderate to vigorous physical activity tend to be highest during the summer months compared to other seasons. Researchers also noted that sedentary behavior is generally lower during summer, likely due to increased daylight and favorable weather conditions.
Daylight itself appears to play an important role. Studies have shown that longer days are associated with higher levels of physical activity and reduced sedentary time. More daylight often means more opportunities for outdoor recreation, exercise, and movement throughout the day.
While increased activity is great for overall health, it can also place additional stress on the spine, muscles, and joints. Activities that may seem harmless such as yard work, home improvement projects, recreational sports, or long days spent on your feet can lead to muscle tension, joint stiffness, and overuse injuries when the body is not adequately prepared.
Regular chiropractic checkups may help maintain proper joint motion, improve mobility, and support the body’s ability to adapt to increased physical demands. By keeping the spine and nervous system functioning optimally, chiropractic care can help you enjoy all that summer has to offer with greater comfort and flexibility.
As you take advantage of the longer days ahead, remember to stay hydrated, stretch regularly, and listen to your body. A proactive approach to spinal health can help keep you moving throughout the busy summer season.
erguson, T., Curtis, R., Fraysse, F., Lagiseti, R., Northcott, C., Virgara, R., Watson, A., & Maher, C. A. (2021). Annual, seasonal, cultural and vacation patterns in sleep, sedentary behaviour and physical activity: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Public Health, 21(1), 1384. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-021-11298-3
Schepps, M. A., Shiroma, E. J., Kamada, M., Harris, T. B., & Lee, I.-M. (2018). Day length is associated with physical activity and sedentary behavior among older women. Scientific Reports, 8(1), 6602. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-25145-w
