How to Exercise When It’s Hot

May 13, 2010 in Fitness by weightladder

Sun in Blue Sky Summer is almost here and if you're trying to get healthy and start exercising more, there are plenty of reasons to get discouraged and stop. If you're not used to exercising in hot weather, it's also very easy to get sick. Let's look at some ways that you can keep exercising, even if the mercury is rising.

First and foremost the key to successful exercise in the warmer months is to get plenty of water. You'll be sweating more and you can dehydrate much more quickly. But you can't stop with just water. You'll also need to make sure that your potassium and sodium levels are good so that you have enough energy to keep going. Sports drinks are a good solution, but they do contain some sugars. Try to find the lowest calorie option and make sure that you drink it before, during and after your exercises. A salty snack is a low calorie option; like five almonds before exercise.

In order to avoid getting overheated while you're exercising, you're going to need to modify your plans a little bit. For example, if you usually walk or run in the afternoon, it is a good idea to try this in the early morning or early evening. It will be much cooler and you won't have the sun beating down on you. If you live in a really hot climate, try to find some creative ways to get your walking in without withering.

In this case, you can go to a mall where they have air conditioning and get your walking in while you're inside. This is a very safe way to get your exercise done no matter how hot it gets outside and it is also useful during summer storms or inclement weather. Even if you're not used to walking or you normally do other exercises, adding in some walking in a mall can be a great substitute when it's too hot out.

If you normally exercise in a gym that is climate controlled, you shouldn't have too many problems with the heat. Again though, you're eventually going to have to go outside and you'll need to make sure that you didn't deplete your body's store of water and nutrients. Just because you exercise where it's cool doesn't mean that you can skip proper hydration.

If your home or gym is not climate controlled, it can be pretty tough to want to go and get even hotter. Place a fan near you to help the air temperature feel cooler while you exercise and make sure that you don't overdo. Break your workout up into five or ten minute blocks and allow yourself a breather in between. This will help you avoid getting overheated.

Summer exercise isn't easy and in most cases, it's even more difficult than trying to get fit during the winter months. However, by staying safe and keeping hydrated, you can ensure that you'll stay on your exercise plan no matter what the weather throws at you. Just remember - hydration and moderation is key.

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Originally posted 2008-11-17 08:53:11. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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