5 Tips for Summer Workout Safety

Posted On Jul 20, 2021 By Lisa Traugott

A woman on a paddleboard.

There are record breaking heat waves occurring across the continent this summer. If you are going to exercise outdoors, remember to stay safe with these five tips:

  1. Follow local weather warnings. If the forecaster says it’s dangerous to be outside, believe them. Whether it’s a heat dome or potential hurricane coming your way, it’s best to not pick a battle with Mother Nature. You can always workout indoors.
  2. Stay hydrated. Always carry a water bottle when you exercise outside. If you’re planning a more intense workout, or running over an hour, consider drinking a sports drink. They help replace electrolytes lost through perspiration. Feeling a little queasy? Here’s a tip from my running coach: mix half of the sport drink with equal parts water so it doesn’t taste so sugary.
  3. Dress for success. Dri-wick clothes are designed to keep you cool and comfortable by drawing the wetness from your skin. They are made from polyester which doesn’t absorb much water, unlike cotton, which soaks up your sweat and can feel heavy and clammy.
  4. Try early morning or evening workouts. The sun can be scorching, so shift your workout to the coolness of pre-dawn or post-sunset. The hottest part of the day is usually 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., so avoid the outdoors during those times. If you are a lunchtime fitness warrior, consider training in an air-conditioned gym or home.
  5. Wear sunscreen. Sunburns hurt, peeled skin makes you feel like a molting snake and sun damage can cause wrinkles and cancer. Why risk that? There are lots of good sunscreens with an SPF of at least 50 that are designed specifically for people playing sports. In addition to having a bottle at home, keep a little bottle in your gym bag so you’re covered if you decide to take a spontaneous trail run.

Enjoy all that the outdoors have to offer while staying safe in the process.

Be healthy!