Sometimes, a run outdoors just sounds better than the treadmill—but the hot
Georgia days could put you in danger if you don’t plan ahead. Stacie Rogers, a U First
Fitness trainer, has a few tips to make sure you’re safe this summer if you choose to
exercise out in this July heat. Remember to always listen to your own body and don’t
overexert yourself.
1) Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
That’s right—three is key. That means drinking water before, during, and
after your workout is crucial to replenish your body and avoid dehydration, which
could lead a number of problems. Be sure to drink water well in advance, too, which
will not only improve performance, but will keep you safe.
2) Know that your body feels temperature differently than you might
think
“If you’re working out outside, know that the temperature will actually be
20° higher to your body,” Stacie warns. “So if it’s 90° outside it’s actually 110° to
your body.” This is extremely important to remember during this insane Georgia
heat, so be sure to dress yourself in clothes designed to help your body cool off, and
remember to pay attention to how you’re feeling and performing; Stacie
recommends “[dialing] your exertion level back accordingly to prevent injury and
heat exhaustion,” which would be a major setback in your fitness journey. It’s better
to be safe and get a less strenuous workout in for the day than to encounter some
major health problems that could prevent you from working out for days (or
potentially lead to permanent damage to your body). Basically, know what you’re
getting yourself into—and how your body will process the heat—so you can plan
accordingly. It’s best to head outside at the cooler times of the day, such as at dawn.
3) Alternate with water and electrolyte drinks
During your workout, to keep your body performing and functioning the way
it should, Stacie suggests consuming a combination of regular water and electrolyte
drinks. It’s important to replenish your body and keep you hydrated, and the
electrolytes you use up while you’re kicking butt are just as crucial to replace as the
water you’re sweating out. But make sure you choose a low cal electrolyte drink, she
warns, because many are filled with unnecessary additives and sugars.
Stay safe this summer and remember to speak to a doctor. Be prepared and don’t
put yourself in a situation that may put your fitness journey on hold—it’s better to
be safe than sorry!
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