Summer is in full swing, and it is hot outside, but that does't mean you have to forgo your daily exercising routine to avoid the heat. Exercising in the summer can be fun, as long as you follow a few general rules.
1. Change up the time: if you usually run, or exercise in the mornings or evenings, try switching it up a bit. Go a little earlier in the morning, or a little later in the evening, when it may be just a little cooler.
2. Dive in: a great summer total body workout is swimming. Grab yourself a one piece suit, a pair of goggles, and a towel and hit the pool. Swimming is a low impact sport and is great for people with arthritis, any musculoskeltol or weight issues.
3. Love your H2O. The hotter the day, the higher the risk of dehydration becomes. Make sure to consume water before, during, and after your workout. Drinking plenty of water also helps your body detox, and helps improve circulation.
4. Grab a workout buddy: Exercising with a partner not only makes the workout go quicker, but also provides accountability. You won't be able to talk yourself out of your workout if you are meeting a buddy. Exercise is a lifelong practice, and you don't want to skip workouts just because it is hot outside.
5. Pay attention: to your body that is. If you are feeling light-headed, or nauseous, stop and take a break, consume water, and give your body a chance to rest. According to Dr. Shivani Chowdhury Salia, an associate professor of Physiotherapy at DY Patil University, the reasons for dizziness can be due to a drop in blood pressure, sudden change of position, drop in blood sugar or exercising at a high intensity.
6. Start slow: You don't have to push yourself right out of the gate. Take it slow as you work your way up to your goals. It is okay to start with a daily morning walk, and work up from there...your body will thank you!
7. Try something new: mix up your routines a bit. Whether that means the time of day, or just the exercise itself, change is good.
Most people know that fitness is a lifelong habit that helps not only the body stay fit, but also the mind. Don't look at working out a chore....think of it as a choice for perfect health. Enjoy those workouts, and thrive!
Information: mindbodygreen.com, womenstalk.com, and greatist.com.
