Here comes the sun! Da-da-da-da…
The summer season makes exercise even more fun with sun-filled outdoor activities. However warmer temperatures can lead to undesirable exercise outcomes such as fatigue and heat illness. Taking a few precautionary steps will keep you safe and enjoying the warm summer days.
- Drink plenty of fluids! If you feel thirsty, your body is already in a dehydrated state. Drink water frequently and replenish electrolytes with a sports drink if the outdoor exercise session is lengthy.
- Listen to your body. Even if you exercise outdoors regularly, the body will react differently in higher temperature. It is a good idea to lessen intensity for a workout or two while your body acclimatizes to the new temperature.
- Look at a heat stress index table. This valuable tool gives equivalent heat when temperature and humidity are combined.
- The mornings tend to be coolest. If you are planning a large outdoor event, plan for an early departure.
- Last, choose clothing that will wick away sweat, and light colors to deflect the sun’s strong rays. A hat and sunglasses can block rays and keep you cool as well.
Grab your water bottle and enjoy some fun in the sun! View more information about beating the heat, including a heat stress index table, here.
