How to Safely Exercise in the Heat
Safe Workouts in the Summer Heat
In many regions, the hottest days of summer have arrived. While for many this means relaxing on the beach, swimming in the lake, and lounging by the pool, this is also a time where exercising becomes more difficult. If you want to safely exercise in the hot summer heat, you’ll need to follow some tips.
When it’s hot and sticky outside, you may not feel like working out. However, that isn’t the only potential issue with the summer heat. As the temperature rises, you’ll need to make sure you’re exercising safely. Failure to take precautions could result in heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.
Here are some tips for safely exercising in the summer heat.
Protect Your Skin
Damage to your skin prevents your body from being able to keep itself cool. For this reason, wearing sunscreen is a good idea. It prevents you from getting a sunburn, which isn’t just painful but can also make it tough for your body to stay cool.
Wear Breathable Materials
Wear lightweight clothing that blocks the sun. Materials like cotton tend to keep heat close to your body, while sweat-wicking athletic clothing helps your skin perspire, keeping you cool, and allowing you to safely exercise.
It’s also a good idea to wear a hat, since your head has a large surface area. If it stays cool, you’ll be more likely to stay cool. Plus, hats will provide shade and keep the sun off your face, so your face will be cooler as well.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is always important, especially when you’re exercising. However, it’s critical when the weather gets very hot.
Staying hydrated helps your body stay cool because it allows your body to sweat. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Be sure to drink before, during, and after exercise.
Avoid the Hottest Parts of the Day
In the summer, it tends to be cooler in morning and evening and hotter midday and in the afternoon. If you’re going to exercise outside, try to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Look at the weather forecast before you go out and consider staying inside if it’s too hot.
Stop if you Feel Unwell
If you feel unwell, nauseous, dizzy, or experience headaches, lightheadedness, cramping, or other negative symptoms, stop what you’re doing and have a rest. Cool down. Take care of yourself and don’t push yourself too hard.