As we all know, the British summer is not what it was 20 years ago. With temperatures rising each year, while we want to keep moving we also want to be safe.
My top tips for exercising in summer:
1. Drink lots of water! It seems obvious but it's really important to stay hydrated in warm weather, even more so if you're exercising as we lose water when we sweat. We also lose electrolytes so if you’re doing a lot of cardio consider whether you need to get sports drinks to replenish lost minerals.
2. Consider the exercise you're doing. Less strenuous exercise is a better option, and it's also worth considering how long you work out for and when. Shorter workouts in the early morning or evening when it's cooler are a safer bet.
3. Keep an eye on the forecast - it’s not advisable to do strenuous exercise in hot weather. The body's processes only work effectively at certain temperatures and if your core temperature gets too high this can lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke (this is classed as a medical emergency and is potentially fatal). Temperatures of 26-32 degrees can cause fatigue and exhaustion, 32-39 degrees risks heat exhaustion or heat stroke and over 39 degrees is generally considered dangerous. Plan your exercise to avoid any issues and cut yourself some slack if you don’t feel up to it. And it perhaps goes without saying but stay out of the sun when you're exercising (and don't forget your suncream
Comments