5 Tips For Keeping In Shape This Summer

Summer is here and it’s really, really hot. All the time. So much so, you’re starting to feel like it might be too hot to work out. This isn’t necessarily the case – all it takes is a bit of planning, some adjustment to your regular routine and an awareness of the health concerns that can arise when taxing your body in extreme temperatures.

Here’s just a few ways you can keep your routine alive during the summer months.

1. Ways to stay cool (cycling, swimming)

If you’re finding that your usual regime leads to chafing, headaches or other symptoms associated with heat exhaustion during the warmer months, consider changing up what you’re doing. Head to the local pool and take up swimming for a low-impact full-body workout that will keep you cool. Or you could head to a specialist retailer like 99 Bikes, pick up a road bike and feel the cool wind in your hair as you get your cardio in for the day.

2. Attire: Business casual

One thing people tend to forget about heading into summer is that their usual gym clothes might not be very comfortable or effective during summer. You should absolutely change up your attire during the warmer months! Aim for lightweight fabrics like cotton that will breathe and make sure they’re in a light colour too. This will all help keep the heat down, help you avoid chafing and won’t get ruined by all the sweating you’ll be doing.

3. Co-op Mode

If possible, rope a friend into training with you. If you’re only just starting a training regimen or trying to get back into the routine, it will be much safer to train with someone in case something happens to either one of you. It also helps to buddy up because it gives you someone to talk to and will keep the workout from becoming stale or boring, which is the worst thing that can happen to your routine.

4. Timing is everything

Choosing the right time of day to workout, especially if you plan to be going outside for any length of time, is crucial. Early morning and in the evening are advisable as the sun’s UV radiation will be at its lowest points for the day and the temperature will (hopefully) be down. If you are going out at a higher temperature time of day, reduce the intensity of your workout to avoid wearing yourself out too badly. Take your workout indoors if you have to – head to a local gym, a shopping centre, anywhere climate controlled that will allow you to keep your heart rate up.

5. Don’t overdo it

If you aren’t used to working out in summer then the last thing want to do is go crazy right away and find yourself laid out with heat stroke. Acclimatisation is key – your body will get used to working out in elevated temperatures over time, but you can’t expect to throw it into the fire right away and have everything be peachy, especially if you haven’t trained in awhile. Your body should be acclimatised within two weeks, so it won’t be long before you’re able to fire on all cylinders again.

As you can see, working out during the summer is about working smarter rather than harder. Part of getting and staying fit is knowing when to push yourself, but it’s also about knowing what your limits really are. Keep hydrated, keep focused, and keep safe.

What are your favourite exercises for the summer months? Share in the comments below!