Exercise in the Summer
Gyms are still closed, and we truly don’t know when they will re-open. Most people continue to do their workouts at home, however since the weather has gotten nicer, everyone wants to get outside to exercise.
As we enter the month of June, we know that summer is right around the corner. This means hot sun and high humidity. Therefore, exercising can become more challenging. Even heat-loving, sun-seeking exercisers can become overheated when the sun is beaming down in the heat of the day.
Below are some tips to follow when exercising outside this summer!
1. Timing– Try to avoid exercising in the early afternoon, particularly around noon to 3pm.
2. Hydrate- Drink water before exercise, during exercise, and after exercise. Bring a bottle of water with you always!
3. Listen to your Body– Take frequent breaks in the shade, and drink water constantly. You may not be able to workout as hard or as long based on the heat, so take precaution.
4. Clothing– It’s important to wear lightweight, light-color, and loose-fitting clothing. Protect yourself from the sun and wear sunglasses or a hat. Also, put on sunscreen if you burn easily!
5. Buddy Up– Workout with a buddy or a group, but take the proper safety protocols.
6. Doctors Clearance– If you are someone who has underlying health issues it’s important to get clearance from a doctor before participating in exercise outdoors.
Below are some ideas of great pre and post workout snacks that can help keep you cool!
- Homemade popsicles (made from 100% Concentrated juices)
- Chilled or Frozen Fruit
- Fruit Smoothies
- Cold Salads with multiple vegetables and a heart healthy fish (salmon or tuna)
- Cold Sparkling Water
Lastly, make sure to pay attention to the weather and be aware of heat-related conditions. Dehydration, Heat Exhaustion, and Heat Stroke are the main health concerns that are heat related. It’s important to educate yourself, so incase of an emergency you will know the symptoms! Have fun, but be safe when exercising outside!
-Olivia Callan
Health Fitness Specialist Corporate Fitness Works