Safety Tips For Exercising In The Heat

One great thing about the summer and spring is the ability to break away from the monotony of running on a treadmill or biking on a stationary. If you're someone who has trouble focusing during your workouts, being able to go for a jog or take advantage of an outdoor group fitness class can help motivate you to workout more.

That being said, IT IS HOT OUT! I am totally not complaining. After months of what seemed like a never ending winter (or oil bill), I am loving the sun. But I just may love it a little too much.  We live near the park and my husband Larry (that man in the morning) always comments bout the "idiots" running in 97 degree weather. Then I defend them saying "I used to be one of those 'idiots' Thank you very much".

I love Hot Yoga. I love a hot run. Heat can be relaxing and can help loosen up your muscles. But in this weather here are some tips to avoid disaster and injury.

1. Be sure to apply sunscreen with a good SPF of 30-45 before your outdoor activity.
2. Hydrate! carry a water bottle with you if you can. Make sure to drink before, during and after.
3. Wear a hat. Sometimes that summer sun beating down on you can develop into a migraine in the evening. And you don't want to sunburn your scalp!
4. Be cognizant of high humidity. Avoid strenuous outdoor activities when humidity will make it hard to breathe.
5. Wear cool clothing. don't overdress, potentially causing you to overheat and dehydrate.
6. Avoid the hours between 12n-4pm when the sun is at its hottest. If you can squeeze in your workout before 8am or after 7pm, All the better, but don't forget the steps above!
7. Be safe and enjoy the summer!