It’s crucial to stay hydrated
Whether you cool off in the Atlantic or take a hike up the Rockies to avoid the summer heat, there’s no avoiding the fact we’re in the middle of a scorching summer. For those who like to exercise outside, the summer months can pose a challenge. Pushing beyond your limits during extreme heat can be harmful.
Follow these tips from around the web to stay cool while getting your heart rate up.
- The first step is to stay hydrated. According to the American Council on Exercise, ”Sweat cools your body by evaporating off your skin. Visible beads of sweat that don’t evaporate only dehydrate you without the beneficial cooling effect. If you let your body become dehydrated, you’ll find it much more difficult to perform even the lightest of workouts.”
- Know the signs of heat-related illness. Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can all creep up on you if you don’t have enough fluids. The Mayo Clinic has more on the conditions.
- Mix up your workout, says experts at fit.com. Run for 20 minutes, bike for 30 minutes and then swim a few laps to cool off at the end of your cardio session. Find more exercise tips here.