8 Tips on Making Summer Workouts More Enjoyable

8 Tips on Making Summer Workouts More Enjoyable

Summer is a perfect time to go outside and work up your fitness routine.

But the summer heat can be a problem if you are not careful, especially if you live in a place with extreme heat and humidity.

You can end up suffering from heat-related health conditions during or after your exercise when you don’t heed your body condition and take necessary precautions.

Heatstroke, heat exhaustion, or extreme dehydration can significantly derail you from your fitness goals during your summer workouts.

So, how can you enjoy your summer body workout in the heat and function properly at the same time?

Here are important things you should keep in mind when working out for summer.

Take a Cold Shower Before Workout

Taking a cold shower before your summer workout is the first step you would want to take.

Don’t blow dry your hair after you shower to keep your head moist. This will help you stay cool while you do your workout in the heat.

Drink the Right Fluids to Stay Hydrated

stay hydrated during a summer workout

It’s not enough to stay hydrated during a summer workout. Make sure that you stay hydrated with the right fluids.

A sufficient amount of water on a hot day will keep you hydrated but if you are planning to exercise more than 60 minutes, you can consider sipping on sports drinks that contain sodium, potassium, and electrolyte.

The high level of sodium in sports drinks may actually be good for your body because sodium is a key ingredient to keep your body functioning properly during summer workouts.

 

Light and Breathable Clothing

It is recommended that you wear bright colors that reflect the sun and help to make you more visible while you are doing your summer workouts.

The best fabric to wear to help you stay dry is cotton since it is a lightweight and affordable material that will help the evaporation of sweat.

You can also opt for sweat-wicking shirts and shorts that are designed to and made from material meant to keep you cool if you have more budget.

Related: How Proper Clothing Is Important When Working Out
enjoy summer workouts using sunscreen

Use Sunscreen

Complete your summer workouts safely by using sunscreen to protect your delicate skin.

A bad sunburn can make it hard for you to move so slather on a water-proof sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 to get the best benefits.

Proper Time

Avoid exercising from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. because it’s the hottest part of the day. Unless you are training for an event that takes place in the daytime, schedule your summer workouts during the early morning or at night when the temperature is cooler.

Exercising before or after the peak hot hours will make it easier for your body to cool itself and stay fully hydrated.

You should never exercise when the temperature is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit (ca. 32 °C) and you should always use extreme caution when working out in temperatures between 82-90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Add Water Activities

a summer workout like swimming

Water is your best friend when you are working out during summer.

On very hot days, you can add a water activity to your summer workout like swimming, surfing, or Stand-Up-Paddle Boarding (SUP).

Water activities will help you stay cool and help make your summer workouts more enjoyable.

If the day seems to end with rain, get on with the water action by running with the rain. Make sure though that you wear bright water-proof clothing and stay in safe areas away from traffic.

Bring It Indoors

When there is an excessive heat warning, bring your summer workout indoors to stay cool and to avoid heat-related injury.

You have several options in fulfilling your summer workout indoor like the gym or inside your home if you have the needed fitness equipment.

Acclimate Yourself

Ramp up your summer workout accordingly.

This means that you should start slow and easy, and increase your workout to about 60% of their normal intensity over the course of two weeks.

Remember that it takes 10-14 days for the body to adjust to a new temperature.

Working Out in Summer Heat

Everyone’s tolerance to heat is different. When doing your summer workouts, listen to your body.

As long as you follow the necessary precautions for a safe and enjoyable summer workout, you are on your way to achieving your fitness goals without unnecessary injury.

 

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Fitness Expo caters to all your exercise needs from treadmills to fitness accessories.

First opened in 1980 by the Rice family, the store continues to offer the top brands and largest selection of exercise equipment for the home or commercial facility making us one of the oldest and most reputable fitness retailers in the country.

We have showrooms across Louisiana and Mississippi, but you can also shop on our website from the comfort of your own home.