It’s no secret that summers in Florida are dangerously hot. Every year, it feels as though the sun’s beams get 10 times more intense, as if the sun itself is 10 times closer to the Earth. This intensity makes people much more prone to dehydration and sun poisoning, and for those who enjoy outdoor workouts, it makes that love for fitness dwindle.
For all the runners, skaters, bicyclists and outdoor enthusiasts out there, don’t let the summer heat defeat your motivation to stay fit and beat your personal records. Instead, don’t skip a beat, stay on your feet, and take in these tips like they’re fitness treats.
Pick the right time of day
Summer days are longer and hotter than other days of the year, with the hottest part of the day being between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Try to go early in the morning or late at night to avoid extreme heat. The hotter it is, the more you’ll sweat, and the faster you’ll get dehydrated.
Water isn’t just for swimming
Swimming in the ocean or at the pool is great for fun, but drinking fresh water is great for health. Working out in hot weather means you’ll get dehydrated a lost faster than usual, so in order to have effective workouts and avoid injury, drink more water than you usually would. Drink a glass or two before your workout, take a bottle of water during your workout, and stay hydrated afterward.
Less is more
Don’t weigh yourself down with heavy, dark-colored clothing. Wear light-colored, loose tank tops or T-shirts and shorts or capris made of dri-fit material. They will make your workouts much more comfortable and absorb any sweat so your clothes don’t weigh you down.
Choose the path less-traveled
Try to find trails and areas that are lined with trees or other forms of shade. Shady areas can be more than 10 degrees cooler than open areas, which will make your workout a lot cooler and reduce your chances of getting sunburned and dehydrated.
Protect your skin and eyes
Don’t forget to use sweat-resistant sunblock during your summer workouts. While it’s always nice to have a tan, running the risk of skin cancer is no joke. According to WebMD, an SPF of 45 blocks approximately 98 percent of the sun’s rays, and if you’re going to spend a lot of time working out outside this summer, the more rays you can block, the better. Make sure to get a good pair of athletic sunglasses, as well, as you don’t want to damage your vision from running toward the sunrise or sunset every day.
Develop a relationship with the weatherman (or woman)
Make sure to check the weather forecast before you head outside to start your fitness regimen. One of the side effects of spending the summer in Florida is never knowing when a rain storm will hit. Be prepared before heading out, especially if you’re going far from your home. The more prepared you are before the workout, the less you’ll have to stress during the workout.
Listen to your body
Sometimes, it is just too hot outside. If you feel dizzy, nauseous or just like something may be off, don’t push through it. Exercising in the heat can be dangerous if you don’t pay attention to your body’s warnings. It’s OK to take a day or two to relax and rehydrate, if need be.
Summer is not the time to be risky with workouts. Whether you’re running, walking, lifting, cycling or just spending some time in the sun, make sure that when you feel the burn, it’s from a healthy workout and not an unhealthy dose of sun.
