BY KATIE STRANG
Newsday Staff Writer

Tired of hiding in the air-conditioning? Want to stay active by means other than pushing the lawn mower? No need to join a swanky country club to get your outdoor sporting fix.

Stray off the beaten path and give one of the more obscure summer sporting opportunities a try.

Long Island has lots to offer, and let’s face it: It’s swimsuit season. The exercise can’t hurt.

DIG THIS

Looking for a tan and some tone? Hook up with Long Island Volleyball Association (631-422-5555) and enter your team in one of the 44 leagues that compete at Jones Beach and Robert Moses State Park. Men’s and women’s co-ed 6’s and 4’s leagues are offered, as well as opportunities for all skill levels. Watch for LIVA’s Make-A-Wish “Champions of the Beach” benefit tournament every year in Sept., offering a chance to showcase your skills and soak up some fun for a good cause. (All proceeds go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Suffolk County.)