We look forward to summer for the time off, warm weather and plenty of sunshine. There are lots of fun activities to keep us occupied, but for many of us, exercise is the last thing on our minds. How come? It might be TOO hot outside!
Sure, a good sweat every now and then can make you feel like you just nailed a killer workout. However, who wants to be sweating around the clock and feeling totally trained from the heat? That’s why it’s easy to spend time indoors, opting for a movie day and a bowl of popcorn inside with the cool A.C.
Fortunately, you don’t have to give up your fitness plans just because it might be blazing outside. Try these cooling tips to stay active while beating the summer heat.
Cooling Tips for Exercising in Summer Heat
Wear the Right Kinds of Clothes
Don’t exercise in your winter clothes! Sweat pants and thick cotton leggings will trap heat in. Lighten your layers by choosing clothes that don’t cling to your body and retain moisture. Shorts and thin t-shirts are a better option. You can also try a headband or bandanna to keep hair off your neck and forehead. If you’re not doing strenuous exercise, you might be able to get away with sandals for some types of exercise.
Choose Cooling Foods
Did you know that some foods can actually cool you down? In this case, fresh fruits and veggies may be a better choice than foods like meat that have a lot of protein. This is because protein-rich foods can increase the amount of metabolic heat your body produces.
Choose Water-based Activities
Rather than taking a bike ride or a jog through the neighborhood, take a dip in your backyard or neighborhood pool. Try making a trip to the beach and enjoy the cooler temperatures of the ocean water. Find a nearby park or forest lake where you can kayak, canoe or snorkel.
Don’t Skimp on Sleep
Staying up late during summer nights might be tempting, but don’t neglect sleep. You’re more likely to feel fatigue on hot days if you’re already exhausted to begin with. Try to get at least seven hours each night, or more if you’re behind.
Always Keep a Water Bottle at Your Side
Dehydration can drain you of all your energy and make you feel hotter. Always keep water at your disposal. Try to carry a reusable bottle that clips to your purse strap, bag or belt buckle. For an extra refresher, throw in some ice or even ice infused with natural fruit. When you’re really hot, take some of the water and splash it on your face to feel a bit cooler.
Take Your Workout Indoors
Exercise doesn’t always have to be done outside. If you don’t feel like a gym day or you don’t have a membership, try indoor workouts. Squats, sit-ups, leg lifts and other exercises can be done on a yoga mat or on the carpet. Throw in a workout DVD and dance to the music. Try jumping jacks or other aerobic exercises that don’t require much room. You can even invest in hand weights to lift while you’re watching T.V. or walking around the house.
Just Get Moving
Don’t overthink exercise. Just focus on moving. If it’s simply too hot to get active outdoors, focus on how you can move inside. This could even be getting to your “chores” that you’ve put off for a while. Just don’t let the summer pass by without making time for your fitness, weight and health goals! Summer heat can be avoided with some creativity and a plan.
