15 May Five summer workout tips
Summer is a great time of year for fitness.
Especially if you live in cold-weather states, there are opportunities we can only dream of while cooped up inside during snowstorms.
There are an almost endless number of summer workout opportunities, ranging from running, to swimming, to cycling and hiking outside.
However, you can also literally run, swim, cycle or hike into danger if you’re not careful.
Here are five summer workout tips to enhance your fitness:
1. Stay hydrated – Extreme heat and humidity can quickly drain the body’s supply of water, electrolytes and salt. The crucial balance of water and electrolytes is essential to keep your body functioning properly.
2. Dress for success – Wear light-colored, loose fitting clothing. The light color will help reflect heat and cotton material will help the sweat evaporate. You may also want to wear specially dry-fit clothing.
Another good way to keep cool is to wear a hat or even a bandana or t-shirt wrapped on your head. It will help keep moisture in and keep the sun off you some.
3. Exercise in the morning – The coolest time of day to exercise is in the morning before temperatures spike. A good morning workout can also provide you with energy for the rest of the day.
4. Listen to your body – Heat exhaustion and dehydration should be taken very seriously in the summer. Stop immediately if you’re feeling dizzy, faint or nauseous.
5. Don’t forget the home gym – Even though the weather’s warm and sunny, it’s also nice to still have the option of working out in a home gym or at a club. You should still keep up a strength training regimen and it’s also nice to have the option to do a cardio workout indoors on a treadmill, elliptical or exercise bike.
At Home Fitness consultant Aaron Dorksen’s blog deals with a variety of fitness topics, ranging from workout tips, motivational ideas and feature stories on how exercise impacts people’s lives. Consult a doctor before making any significant changes in your exercise routine or diet. E-mail him with comments, questions or ideas for future blogs at aaron@athomefitness.com