It is officially summer time. This is not time to slow down with your workout routine. It is, in fact, a time when we usually want to look and feel our best.
During the summer months, make sure to keep up with your regular gym routine. First, we all crave schedule and routine. Sticking with your usual workout routine will help you stay grounded during the hectic summer months. Second, your body will thank you. You work hard all year long. The last thing you want to do is start from scratch again in the fall. Muscle strength, endurance and definition can diminish quickly if not maintained. Even if you can keep up with your routine three to four days a week you will be able to maintain what you have worked so hard for all year round.
If you do some of your workouts outdoors, make sure to be cautious during the hot temperatures. Exercise combined with warm temperatures will increase your body?s temperature. You will want to adjust your workout based on the outdoor conditions. Use some of these tips to ensure you stay safe and healthy during your outdoor workouts.
Start slow. Make sure you adjust your body to the warmer temperatures slowly. If you typically exercise indoors, you may need to slowly adapt your body to the warmer temperatures outdoors gradually.
Drink up. An increased body temperature means increased perspiration. This means drinking even more fluids before, during and after your workout. Try to avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages. Instead, drink lots of water or possibly a sport drink if you will be exercising for an extended period of time outdoors (longer than an hour).
Protect your body. Make sure to dress appropriately. Loose fitting, breathable clothing is usually best. Wear sunscreen to protect your skin and consider wearing a hat to reduce the exposure of the sun on your head and face.
If you begin to feel ill, weak or dizzy during a workout, whether indoors or out, make sure to slow things down. Take care of your body through safe exercise. Don?t put your health at risk.
Say it! Mean it! Do it!
