June 5th, 2022
Man, it’s steamy out there! Now is a good time to review how to stay fit and safe while exercising in the extreme Florida heat. This way, you can maintain your outdoor exercise regimen throughout the summer without putting yourself at risk for heat-related illness. Keep reading to learn more!
Stay hydrated. Without a doubt, staying hydrated is the best way to stay safe while exercising in the heat. Now, to stay hydrated, you should drink water throughout the day and not just while you exercise! Going high intensity? Sports drinks offer potassium and electrolytes if you plan to hit it hard. However, water is always best.
Eat water-rich snacks. Eating water-rich snacks such as fruits and vegetables before a workout will keep you full and energized – a much-needed requirement as the temperatures rises.
Go indoors. If the weather report has rain or extremely high temperatures, take your workout indoors. At Driven Fit + Sponaugle, our studio has everything you need to train productively and effectively.
Take regular breaks. As you exercise outdoors, the heat and humidity increase your body temperature to rise which will cause you to fatigue more quickly. It is very important to pace yourself and rest when needed. Otherwise, you put yourself at risk for dehydration, cramping, or worst-case scenario, heatstroke.
Wear heat appropriate clothing. During the summer, wear breathable, light-colored, and moisture-wick clothing. Dark colors will only absorb heat from the sun, and tight clothing will make you feel stuffy and uncomfortable.
Don’t push yourself. As you exercise outside, you must listen to your body and know when it’s time to stop. Staying in the heat too long can lead to exhaustion. If you start feeling dizzy, weak, or lightheaded, it’s time to head indoors and cool off.
Shorten your workouts. Longer exercise sessions don’t always yield the best results! In fact, regular workouts that last just 20 or 30 minutes can be just as effective (the “working less but smarter” mentality). Still not convinced? The trainers at Driven Fit + Sponaugle can show you how to get the results you want by training more efficiently.
Exercise at the right time. Always, always avoid exercising during the hottest times of the day! The heat peaks from 10 am to 4 pm, so shoot for early morning or evening workouts.
Apply sunscreen. No matter what time of day you head outside, always remember to apply a generous amount of sunscreen. That sun is brutal, and the last thing you want (or need) is a terrible sunburn to interrupt your training momentum.
Identify the symptoms of heatstroke. Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, rapid breathing, flushed skin, and sweat turning to dry skin…these are some of the most common symptoms of heatstroke. Know them because, if left untreated, heatstroke can be fatal.
Get fit this summer at Driven Fit + Sponaugle!
Get your body beach-ready at Driven Fit + Sponaugle – South Tampa’s top fitness and wellness studio! To learn about our personal training, massage therapy, and chiropractic care services, please call (813) 440-3016 or text (813) 576-1160 to book an appointment.
Categories: Personal Training