Whew! It’s hot out there! It’s tempting to stay inside in the icy-cool AC all summer long, but now’s the time to get outside and (safely) soak up the sun or the cool evening breeze.
Don’t sacrifice your outdoor workouts and “me” time in the summer; simply adjust your typical schedule and activities along with the weather to keep up your fitness and focus on your goals. Ahead, we’re sharing our secrets to living an active life even when the temps are high.

 

Wake up earlier or work out later.
The sun is at its strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM, which means you may want to avoid high-intensity exercise during this time period, or at least layer up on lots of SPF 30+. If you prefer to work out outside, get up early and try a morning run before the sun peaks or hit the pavement in the PM when the sun sets. If you must work out during the afternoon, stick to shadier areas. Just make sure you’re working out in a safe, well-lit area and bring a friend if possible.

 

Increase your H20 goals.
Hot weather and humidity means you’re sweating more, so you should increase your water intake to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the summer season. Challenge yourself to drink more water, more frequently; if you typically go through two or three large water tumblers per day, try to make it four. Add lemon, lime, or mint to change things up. If you’re heading out on your bike, pack an extra bottle of water for the journey.

 

Know the signs of heat exhaustion.
Move your workouts inside when it’s simply too hot to handle and enjoy the AC or the blast of a fan on your skin. If you are outside, make sure you’re aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion, including nausea, dizziness, excessive thirst and sweating, and fatigue. Bringing your pup along for a long run or walk? Make sure you know when they’ve hit their limit! Watch out for heavy panting and drooling, loss of energy, and vomiting or diarrhea, which are the major signs of heat exhaustion in dogs.

 

Wear loose, lightweight clothing.
Skip the tight-fitting, full-body workout gear in favor of lightweight cotton pieces that encourage air flow as you move, preferably in lighter colors that reflect light instead of absorbing it. It’s a simple swap that will keep you comfortable whether you’re doing outdoor yoga or a neighborhood jog.

 

Find creative ways to stay cool.
Make your own popsicles with fresh squeezed fruit juice! Try our Red Beet Frozen Yogurt Bark! Make a weekly trip to the local pool or lake and try water aerobics or lap swimming instead of jogging or biking. Pack a mini fan to cool off quickly. Hit up a new gym and try their indoor workout classes on the hottest days. Be prepared for the unexpected and remember to listen to your body. If it feels off, it probably is! Don’t overextend yourself and potentially hurt yourself in the process.