Less is more: it's time to ditch the weights and make the most of your summer

With summer in full swing, you're itching to get outside and enjoy the great weather, Since this column is all about maximizing performance while finding balance in your life, I want you to switch your mind-set and realize that it's possible to combine outdoor leisure activity and training. With little or no equipment, you can train outdoors, regardless of your goal, using plyometrics, the cornerstone of athletic performance. I've combined some plyometric movements along with a few other basic exercises to create a simple, take-anywhere total-body circuit (see box, right). Aim to finish this workout in 20 minutes or less. I guarantee it will rival any weight-based workout you've ever done in a gym.

Explosively perform a push-up to get your hands high enough to clap before hitting the ground.* SQUAT JUMP W/ARM SWING x 10 Squat low to the ground, and explosively reverse direction, jumping at the top of the movement as you extend your arms.* PULL-UPS x 10DEREK POUNDSTONE is a two-time Arnold Strongman Classic champion and the host of Poundstone Power Radio, which airs live on Sirius and on XM channel 92 Wednesdays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Ask him a question via his site, poundstonepower.comTHE WORKOUTThis type of gift will continue delivering a healthy source of physical activity and never grow old.Not something we usually think about in the middle of winter, but it really depends on your local climate. If you live in an area that stays relatively warm during the winter time, consider bringing the kids out for a day of splashing around�the upside is in most places, you won't find the summer crowds. Other great activity days include ice skating, rollerblading, and bowling.BAND GOOD MORNING Stand on one end of a looped band with the other end behind your head and perform good mornings.Stand in the start position for hip circles. Kick one leg as high as you can to the side, then allow it to swing down and past your opposite leg.* SPRINT 50 YARDS Pace off the distance and leave markers--the length of an average man's stride is one yard.* PLANK x 60 SECONDS Lie facedown and prop yourself up on your toes and elbows. Keep your core muscles tense.

You don't need a gym for some of the best training of your life.

Author: Derek Poundstone