Exercising When It's Hot? Here's How.

Just because it’s summertime and the weather is hot and humid doesn’t mean you have to stop your exercise routine. You can continue to get some great workouts done even if the sun is shining and the temperature is high.  However, if you prefer to work out in the great outdoors, it’s important to make adjustments to your routine.

Here are some top tips for the times when you’re exercising outside on a hot summer’s day. Following these tips will ensure you stay safe, hydrated, and injury-free during your workouts.

Drink Plenty of Water

Exercising outdoors in the middle of summer increases your risk of dehydration. Because of the high temperatures, your body will get hot very quickly when you’re exercising and secrete more sweat to try and cool you down. As a result, you lose more water during your workout.

Because of the excess sweat production, it is easier to become dehydrated if you don’t drink enough water. Before you head outside to exercise, fill a bottle up with fresh water and keep sipping it throughout the workout.

Find a Shaded Area

If you’re heading to the park or going into your garden to exercise outside on a hot summer’s day, try and find a shaded area.

Being in the shade will keep you out of the sun and prevents you from getting too hot during your workout. It also lowers the risk of dehydration or sunstroke.

Try Swimming

If your usual workout routine involves running or HIIT circuits, summer is a good time to switch things up and try swimming. When you’re swimming in a pool of refreshing water, it can help to keep your body temperature down. Despite the hot sun, you will stay nice and cool as you work out.

Swimming has additional benefits for your health. The feeling of the water moving over your body as you swim can provide relaxing, therapeutic benefits by boosting your mood while being gentle on your joints.