Whether you’re just starting a workout program or have been exercising for years, there are summer fitness hazards that you should be aware of, so you can avoid them and make your workout safer and more successful. The first and most obvious is hydration. As the temperature goes up, you sweat more and your body heats up more quickly. If you’re working out in an air conditioned gym, the problem of staying hydrated isn’t as bad, but the minute you take your exercise outside, be aware that you need to keep the fluids flowing. Drink at least eight ounces of water every ten to fifteen minutes to make sure you don’t suffer from dehydration.
Wear the right type of clothing.
You may not want to show off your body just yet, but don’t cover it up in the summer out of vanity. It could be dangerous. The more of your body that shows, the more air can reach it to cool it by evaporating sweat. Dark clothing might slim you, but it also absorbs heat. Thin black clothing transfers the heat to your skin and makes you even hotter. Dress for fitness success with lighter colors and clothing that is appropriate for the summer. Don’t forget to add a good pair of workout shoes to your list of summer clothing.
Exercise in the morning or late afternoon.
Seriously, animals don’t even run around during the heat of the day and you shouldn’t either. Limit your exercising to before ten in the morning or after four in the afternoon. You’ll be avoiding the hottest hours of the day, which helps keep you safer and aids in preventing heat stroke. On hot mornings or evenings, cool yourself before you exercise with an icy drink. It will help slow down overheating.
Create your own healthy icy treat.
Nothing is better than a cold treat on a hot day, but so many of them are filled with calories, sugar and chemicals. Instead of buying a treat, make one for yourself. You can turn frozen bananas into creamy icy goodness with a blender or make your own fruit pop with juices or blended fruit. Not only will you reap benefits from eating these treats, your family will love them too and they’re extremely healthy for them.
Take a break if you’re getting exhausted. If you’re working out in the heat, exhaustion can be a sign of danger. Don’t push too hard, especially at first. Working out in the heat takes more of a toll on your body than working out in an air conditioned gym.
Don’t be ashamed of yourself, embrace who you are at the moment and look forward to who you’re becoming. Too often people don’t exercise because they worry about how they look. Don’t do that!
Do count fun activities as part of your workout. You don’t have to workout in the gym to benefit from exercise. Hiking, biking and swimming are just a few of the activities that not only provide a workout, but are fun too.
Keep cool juicy snacks on hand. Fresh fruit not only can give you an energy boost, it also provides some extra fluids.