A SPECIAL REPORT: SUMMERTIME SPORTS

Beating the Heat

So you want to keep your heart rate high and your swimsuit size low by staying in shape during the summer months? Have no fear, it can be done--without risking heatstroke or even buying an expensive health club membership. There are plenty of athletic endeavors that allow you to keep your cool even when it’s hot.

Ice Is Nice

The L.A. Kings professional ice hockey team trains at Iceoplex in North Hills during the preseason. The facility, above, offers at least three hours per day of open skating time for the public. Pickwick Ice Arena in Burbank and Panorama Ice Chalet in Panorama City are two other big ice skating venues in the Valley.

Water Works

The L.A. County Parks and Recreation Department offers swimming for a nominal fee at 17 public pools throughout the summer. Information: (818) 765-0284. Another hub for water activity is the Castaic Lake Recreation Area, which has two swim beaches and designated areas for various water sports. Information: (805) 257-4050.

Window Walking

There is no national governing body for the sport of mall walking, but it is fast becoming a popular activity, especially for seniors. The Northridge Fashion Center doesn’t have an organized program, but it opens its doors to walkers each day at 7 a.m., three hours before business begins.