Exercising Safely In The Summer Sun

With longer days and warmer weather, the summer months are the perfect time to take your workouts into the open air. Although working out in the heat and humidity may be beneficial to some, everybody needs to be cautious when exercising outdoors in warm weather. Research shows that heat stress increases the amount of work your body has to do. This can make your workout feel more difficult than it would in a temperature your body is used to. Exercising in hot conditions increases the risk of dehydration, heat stroke, sunburn and dizziness.

Top tips to stay cool and safe when exercising in the heat:

1. Allow your body to acclimatise to the temperatures. Lower the intensity and duration of workouts initially.

2. Change the times you exercise. Plan around peak temperatures and adjust your workout accordingly.

3. Change the way you workout. Try more heat-friendly forms of exercise, or allow yourself a less intense fitness routine if you need to be out in hotter temperatures.

4. Stay hydrated. During exercise you need to replace the fluids you are losing, and in the heat this will be more than usual so ensure you have a drink with you at all times.

5. Dress accordingly to the temperatures you will be exercising in, work out in lighter fabrics and colours. Stay protected with sunscreen and a hat and sunglasses.

6. Know your limits and don't push yourself too hard. If you start feeling dizzy or nauseous, stop exercising immediately.

Heat-related illnesses are largely preventable. If the summer heat proves to be too much of a challenge for your standard workouts, consider the above tips, take precautions and enjoy safe summer fitness!