Summer may be the best time to work out, but it can also be the most challenging. The hot weather can make exercise more difficult than in the winter, but you don't have to let that stop you! Here are 7 tips for exercising in the Heat to stay calm and keep exercising!
1) Hydrate Before and After
Start your
workout by hydrating with cold water or an electrolyte drink. Then, keep
drinking fluids throughout your workout. You might need more than you think, up
to a pint per hour.
To avoid
cramping, make sure you're getting enough sodium, too. When you're done,
rehydrate with a cold drink or shower within 30 minutes. And don't forget to
replenish your electrolytes by eating foods like bananas, sweet potatoes, and
leafy greens.
2) Dress
Appropriately
Dressing appropriately
for exercising in the Heat is essential to avoid overheating. Wear loose,
light-colored clothing that helps wick away sweat. A hat or visor can help keep
the sun out of your eyes, and sunglasses will protect your eyes from harmful UV
rays.
Sunscreen is
also a must to protect your skin
from sun damage. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to stay
hydrated, and take breaks often to cool down in the shade or air conditioning.
3) Listen to Your Body
When it's
hot outside, your body has to work harder to cool itself off. That means you
might be unable to push yourself as hard as you usually would during a workout.
So, listening to your body and not overdoing it is essential. Here are seven
tips for exercising in the Heat without overheating.
4) Stay
Cooler with Hacks
1. Wear
light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
2. Seek
shade whenever possible.
3. Drink
plenty of fluids, even if you're not thirsty.
4. Monitor
your body temperature and look for signs of heat exhaustion.
5. Plan your
workouts for more excellent times of the day.
6. Slow down
and take breaks as needed.
7. Use a wet
towel or cool bandana to keep your skin temperature down.
5) Stretch before Exercising
1. It's
essential to warm up your muscles before working out in the Heat. An excellent
way to do this is by stretching.
2. Stretch
each muscle
group for at least 30 seconds.
3. If you
can, exercise indoors or in the shade to avoid direct sunlight.
4. Stay
hydrated by drinking plenty of water or sports drinks.
5. Avoid
alcohol and caffeine before exercising.
6. Wear
loose, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton.
7. Pay
attention to your body and stop if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous.
6) Move
Slow
Heat makes
your heart
work harder, so it's essential to take it slow when you first start
exercising in the Heat. Give your body time to adjust by starting with shorter
workouts and gradually increasing the intensity and duration.
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, and avoid alcoholic beverages or drinks with caffeine. Don't wait until you're thirsty; aim to drink about 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes or so.
Dress
appropriately in light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable
fabrics like cotton. Avoid wearing anything too tight or constricting. If
possible, exercise during the more excellent hours of the day, either early
morning or evening.
7) Start
with a Walk
When it's
hot outside, the last thing you want to do is go for a run. But that doesn't
mean you have to give up your workout entirely. Walking is a great way to get
some exercise without overdoing it. And there are a few things you can do to
ensure you don't overheat.