3 Tips for Working Out in the Heat

Just because it’s hot outside doesn’t mean it’s time to stop exercising and spend all day laying in the air conditioning!

Before you begin exercising this summer, here are three tips for working out and staying healthy in the heat.

Stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes

One of the most important things to do while exercising in the heat is drinking water, water, and more water! Dehydration can cause light-headedness and nausea, and can lead to bigger health problems like kidney failure. Make sure to take plenty of water breaks and watch for any signs of dehydration.

While it’s crucial to drink enough water while working out in the heat, making sure you maintain your body’s balance of electrolytes and salt is important too. Bringing along a sugar-free sports drink, like G2 Gatorade can help avoid confusion, nausea  and muscle cramps associated with low electrolytes.

Avoid temperature peaks and heat advisory days

Working out in the morning, before the sun has a chance to kick up the heat is the best. If you can’t work out in the morning, avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day, which is from 10 am to 3 pm.

Always check the weather forecast before leaving for a workout. If there is a heat advisory in effect, keep your exercise session indoors.

Use sunscreen and shade

There’s no sense in heading outdoors to get in shape and getting skin cancer, right? It’s important to wear sunscreen every time you exercise outside, even on cloudy days. Look for places with ample shade for your work out: not only will you protect your skin, you’ll stay cooler too.

Bonus tip: Hit the pool

Who says exercising can’t be fun? Stay cool and tone your body by doing laps around your local pool, bring a friend and race each other, or check out a water aerobics class at the YMCA.

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