5 Summertime Exercise Tips

Exercising is one of the best things you can do for your health. It will strengthen your muscles, burn calories and lower your risk of many chronic diseases. Statistics show, however, that only 23% of Americans get enough exercise. You can continue exercising during the summer to achieve better health.. With that said, you may want to consider the following summertime exercise tips.

Wear Lightweight, Loose-Fitted Clothing

It's recommended that you wear lightweight, loose-fitted clothing when exercising during the summer. You won't be able to wear the same thick and heavy garments that you typically wear during the winter. The summer season is characterized by hot and humid weather. To stay cool, you need to wear the right clothing. Choose clothing that's lightweight and loose-fitted for maximum comfort. 

Avoid Midday Hours

If you're going to exercise outdoors during the summer, you should avoid the midday hours. In most areas, the hottest time of the day is around 2:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m. Exercising during these midday hours isn't just uncomfortable; it's potentially dangerous. You can still exercise during the summer, but try to avoid these midday hours. Instead, plan your outdoor exercise regimen for the morning or evening when it's cooler.

Apply Sunscreen

Don't forget to apply sunscreen when exercising during the summer. Prolonged sun exposure can damage your skin. The longer your skin is exposed to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) light, the greater the risk of it succumbing to sunburn. And sunburn can increase your risk of skin cancer. Fortunately, sunscreen products are available to protect against sunburn. You can apply a sunscreen lotion, oil or spray to your skin. The sunscreen will then block some of the sun's UV light so that it's unable to reach your skin.

Stay Hydrated

One of the most important tips to follow when exercising during the summer is to stay hydrated. Millions of people are chronically dehydrated. Dehydration, of course, is particularly common during the summer. As your body sweats, it will lose its water content. And if your body loses enough water, you'll become dehydrated -- assuming you don't replenish your body's water supply by drinking water.

Take Breaks to Cool Off

You should take breaks to cool off when exercising during the summer. Even if you wear lightweight and loose-fitted clothing, there's only so much heat to which your body can be exposed. Exercising for an extended period outdoors may result in your body overheating. To prevent this from happening, take breaks by going indoors to cool off periodically.