Fitness Tips for Working Out in the Heat
Now that the days are getting warmer, you need to be a bit more cautious in the warmer weather. Exercising in hot weather increases our body temperature, and sometimes this natural cooling system can’t keep up if we’re exposed to hot temperatures for too long. The result includes heat exhaustion or, worse, heatstroke.
If the humidity is also high, you’re in double trouble. Here are some tips for exercising in warmer temperatures in New England this summer!
Tip #1: Ease Up
If you are visiting a warmer climate, or it is hot out one day, take it easy. You can’t do what you usually do in the temperatures you are used to. Whether it’s a difference in elevation or a difference in temperature and humidity, the result can be devastating to better safe than sorry. If you usually run, try just jogging or going for a walk. As your body adapts to the heat, you can slowly increase your pace or how long you workout for.
Tip #2: Avoid the Hottest Part of the Day
There are certain times of the day that the sun is at peak UV index and is at its strongest. You need to avoid extreme outdoor physical activities during these times. Even walking and biking can be risky on sweltering days. Rise early to catch the cool temperatures in the morning, or you can go out after 4 PM once the temperatures start to go down. The prime hours you should stay out of the sun are between 10 AM and 3 PM, although that range is slowly growing. Other options would be to visit a gym, like Sheehan Personal Training in Mansfield, MA, where you can get an entire workout in our cool facilities.
Tip #3: Wear Light-Colored, Lightweight Clothing
Another thing that you can do if you prefer outdoor workouts is to wear light-colored and lightweight clothing. The darker and thicker the dress, the more heat it absorbs. Dark colors attract the heat, making you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm blanket. Heavyweight, tight-fitting clothing will also heat you much quicker than if it were loose and light. Breathable clothing will be able to circulate air throughout your skin, keeping you nice and cool.
Tip #4: Know When to Say, “I’m Going Inside.”
Lastly, know when it is time to throw in the towel. Sometimes you don’t need to finish your four-mile workout, or you can spend it inside under the cool shade. Listen to your body. Remember that even a 20-minute workout has positive health effects - it’s the number of days you exercise that matters most. If you’re feeling any of the following, find cooler air fast:
Weakness
Light-headedness
Dizziness
Paling of the skin
Headache
Muscle cramps
Nausea or vomiting
Rapid heartbeat
Visit Sheehan Personal Training in Mansfield, MA
If you are interested in improving your physical health this summer but are worried about working out in extreme heat and humidity, consider visiting Sheehan Personal Training in Mansfield, MA! For $99, you can try out 3 of our semi-private personal training sessions.
We have plenty of different plans, such as cardiovascular training, group classes, and semi-private training sessions that will help you get started on your journey. At Sheehan Personal Training, thrive and feel alive at any age - get started by contacting us today at 5083373131 to learn more!