When it's a bazillion degrees, the last thing you feel like doing is increasing your heart rate more by working out. Thing is, you are already sweaty, so why not make it worthwhile? The trick is, to be smart about it - there is no point to getting fit and healthy if you end up at the ER for heat exhaustion in the process. Here are some tips to help you exercise outdoors at this time of year.
- Going for a run at lunchtime is a great idea - if you are a conditioned athlete, and you were born somewhere way closer to the equator... so pick your times. If you are a morning person, get up early (like 5.00am) and get out there before the sun comes up. Working out in the morning sets you up for an awesome day (well, that's the theory). If you are a night owl, and don't believe that there is such a thing as five o'clock in the morning, unwind from a stressful day with a workout in the evening. It's amazing what a cardio blast at 6.30pm can do for your night's sleep - you don't even realise it's too hot to sleep when you are that knackered!
- Pick your spot. That spot on the couch still looks awesome, but you can't beat a run (or fast walk) along the beach in the evening. Best thing is, at the end you can flop into the tide to cool off.
- Pick a buddy. It's pretty easy at 3pm to say "nah, I'll flag it, it's too hot". If you have someone relying on you to be somewhere, you are more inclined to bite the bullet and go. Team up with a mate (or mates) who won't bail on you, and get to it.
- Pick your workout. If you're like me, and avoid gyms with mirrors at all costs, your local park provides natural shade. You don't have to just run around in circles (I do enough of that at work) do some walking lunges and squats, and use the park bench for some step ups and tricep dips. Trust me, people only stare for a little while, and then find someone else to laugh at. Best part of this little tip is that it's FREE!
- Pick the right gear. Of course make sure you are being sun smart. Loads of sunscreen, a hat and some good fitting sunnies is the order of the day here, along with plenty of water to drink after your workout (not during). Getting a healthy dose of Vitamin D is easy in a t-shirt and shorts.
So what are you waiting for?