(BlackFitness101.com) It is hot! The heat in many parts of the country is clearly disrespectful. I admit if it were not for my Planet Fitness gym membership I think I would have to postpone my workouts until October or November. There is no way I would go outside these hot summer days to walk, jog, run, ride a bike…or merely stand on the porch. When summer hits we must be mindful of the heat in regard to workouts, where we workout, and in some instances the time we choose to do so. It can be a serious detriment to the body to try to exercise in high heat. Sometimes people find themselves experiencing shortness of breath quickly that sometimes leads to other heat related impairments. Extra precaution must be taken for your skin when the UV index is high and working out outside is a constant battle to remain hydrated.
Granted dehydration, in some form, is something many people battle everyday regardless of weather, but in the summer the effects are more readily seen. Water intake must become a part of your everyday routine when you are working out and throughout your day. Staying hydrated is one way to consistently beat the heat while caring for your body.
If you decide outdoors exercise is better for you it is very important to consider what times you are working out. It might be best to do your walking and running early in the morning or in the evening once the temperatures begin to cool off. In addition to the fatigue the heat can causes there are instances whereby it is so bright outside proper vision is difficult to maintain. You don’t want to injure yourself because you were running and really couldn’t see something on the ground in your path.
Working up a good sweat is definitely a plus when working out. However, you want to be sure you are using proper sunscreen on these extremely hot days so that you are not damaging your skin as you try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. For some the gym is not only an option of convenience, but a safety choice as the extreme temperatures can be dangerous for some people that have certain health challenges to consider. If you know you are prone to migraine headaches, for instance, running in the extreme heat and sunlight could very well trigger a migraine headache. In climates that have high humidity with severe heart some might find it difficult to breath which can be detrimental.
If you insist of taking your workout outside in the summer be sure you are mindful of the heat. Do all you can to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your day. Pay attention to the time of day the sun is the brightest with the highest temperature as this might be the time you look to avoid in your workout. You may want to consider mornings and evenings. If you find that the heat disagrees with you its okay to consider the gym until the temperatures cool down. Its important to remember to stay safe in whichever workout environment you choose.
Staff Writer; Christian Starr
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