Staying active during hot summer months can be daunting, especially when a cool drink and relaxing by the pool is more tempting than a jog around the park. By beating the heat, staying hydrated, and wearing the right gear, you can keep up your motivation to exercise and get fit, even when it’s hot.
Here are our 6 top tips to get you through:
1. Start early
Beat the heat by fitting in your workout before the sun works its magic and the day gets too hot. A cool summer morning is the perfect time to walk or jog in the park. By getting your exercise done in the morning, you’ll also free up the rest of your day for other fun summer activities!
2. Hydrate
With temperatures soaring, be sure to stay hydrated by consuming plenty of fluids. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and during any daily exercise. Water-rich foods like lettuce and fruits are great to help keep you hydrated throughout summer.
3. Take your workout inside
If it’s simply too hot outside to exercise outdoors, take your workout inside to the gym, or your living room. Pop in your favourite workout DVD or take a walk on the treadmill. You can also do wall-sits, planks, or lift hand weights while watching your favourite morning news show.
4. Go to the pool
Take a dip at the pool to cool down and to swim laps. This low-impact exercise is an easy and fun way to fit in exercise during the hot summer months. Just be sure to wear sunscreen! No pool nearby? Try a different summer activity, such as an easy bike ride or a friendly game of tennis with your partner or a friend.
5. Listen to your body
You know yourself best, so be vigilant about listening to your body. Are you thirsty? Are you too hot? Pay close attention to whether or not you are getting tired quickly or need a sip of water. If you’re feeling drained, take a break and resume your workout later.
6. Wear the right gear
Having the right workout gear can make a huge difference. Wear light-coloured, sweat-wicking clothes that will keep you cool. Of course, be sure to slip slop slap and wear a layer of sunscreen, sport a pair of sunglasses and a hat, and glide on an SPF lip balm so your lips don’t get burnt in the summer sun.
