Heat and Health

image via akahodag on Flickr

In many parts of the US right now, there are record high temperatures. Yesterday, I decided to sit on my back patio to get some fresh air. Five minutes later, I decided I had literally inhaled as much heat and humidity as possible, I scrambled back inside to fetch a cold glass of water and the comfort of my air conditioner. Triple-digit heat doesn't agree with outdoor lounging, and exercising outdoors in it is even more challenging.

With the heat, it's important that we're extra cautious with outdoor exercise routines. Here are some steps to stay safe in these temperatures:

1. Adjust your schedule: Aim to do your outdoor workouts early in the morning or in the evening after temperatures have cooled significantly. Just make sure to wear high-visibility items if you are venturing into a dark area. 
2. Hydrate: Carry water with you on all activities so you can rehydrate as needed. Hydrating every 30 minutes of activity while in high temperatures is a good way to make sure you aren't dehydrated later in the day.
3. Seek Shade: Is there a park that has more shade than the one your normally go to? Use the opportunity to try somewhere new with shade, or a sun/shade mixture (versus 100% sun). Not only will it help you stay a little cooler, a new path is a great way to switch up your workout routine.
4. Water Seeker: Use the heat as an excuse to hit the pool for cooling off and for a workout. Lap swimming, water jogging, and using a foam pool noodle for arm resistance are all great ways to get a workout.
5. Love your air conditioner: If none of these are possible, you can always exercise inside your cool home. Squats, lunges, and arm exercises with weights (or canned goods!) are all great to do without equipment. Want some more ideas? Hit up YouTube and start searching.

How do you beat the heat and continue your workouts?