Tips for Exercising in the Summer

Tips for Exercising in the Summer

It has certainly been a very hot summer in many parts of the country. However, that doesn’t mean you have to stop exercising completely. What it does mean, though, is that you need to be safe and you might need to make some adjustments to your routine. Here are some tips for exercising in the summer.

Dress Appropriately

What you wear during your workouts is important, especially if you’re going to be exercising outside in the hot weather. Be sure to wear clothing that is light and breathable. You’ll also want to protect your head with a hat. This will help keep your body temperature down. And don’t forget the sunscreen!

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is important in every season, but especially important in the summer. Don’t just drink before or after your workout. If possible, take sips of water every 15 or 20 minutes while exercising to make sure you stay hydrated. Drinking enough water will keep you from experiencing dizziness, headaches, cramping, and other – potentially more serious – issues. However, drinking too much water can make it difficult to exercise, so try to strike a happy balance.

Get the Timing Right

It’s often the hottest in the middle of the day and the early afternoon, so try to avoid exercising outdoors during these times. If possible, do your workouts early in the morning or around dusk in the evening. Otherwise, you may want to move your workout indoors.

Listen to your Body

It’s very important to listen to your body whenever you’re exercising, especially if you’re working out in the hot summer weather. If you start to feel dizzy or lightheaded, or if you experience cramping, pain, headaches, or other symptoms, stop exercising right away. Go somewhere cool and get hydrated. If your symptoms don’t subside quickly, seek medical attention. Serious issues such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur during especially warm temperatures.

If it’s very hot outside, adjust your workout. Opt for a shorter or less intense workout, or consider going inside. While it’s great to get outside and do a full workout, this may not be the best idea during a heat wave. Be smart and stay safe.