Warm Weather Workout

Staying Safe While Working Out In The Summer Heat

Q: Dear April Masini,

The spring weather has been so beautiful and I've been doing a great job at working out! But now the weather is getting hotter and hotter and I'm worried about how I can work out in this heat all summer long. Do you have any tips for making sure I stay safe and am as comfortable as possible while working out in the summer heat?

Sincerely,

Summer Runner

A:

Hot Weather Workout Tips:

1. Hydrate. You're going to sweat more if the weather is hot and humid. Stay extra hydrated. 

2. Dress appropriately. You're not going to get through a summer, hot-weather workout in the same garb you do for a winter workout. Have a winter workout wardrobe as well as a summer workout wardrobe. Don't layer as much in the heat. Keep your fabrics light instead of heavy and tight knit. Go for cotton and even linen (it wrinkles, but it's cool) for hot weather workouts. 

3. Sunscreen! Invest in a sunscreen that is sweat-resistant. Also go for one that won't burn your eyes if you sweat and it runs into your eyes. 

4. Socks. You're going to sweat more in the hot weather than in the cold, so if your feet are prone to odor or excessive sweating, change your socks mid-workout. It's just like a water break -- only it's a sock break. 

5. Adjust the length of your workout for the heat and humidity. Your body is going to work differently in the heat than it is in the cold. Just because you have a set amount of time to workout in cold weather does not mean it's an appropriate amount of time to work out in hot weather. Limit your workout time in the heat. 

6. Time of day counts. In hot weather areas, you're going to want to work out early in the morning rather at noon in the heat of the full on sun. Adjust your workout time to match the day's weather. 

7. Consider the pool. What better way to work out and stay cool than to swim in the pool? If you're a winter runner, consider swimming laps in the summer. You'll eliminate so many weather obstacles by being flexible with your workout. 

April Masini -- nicknamed "the new millennium's Dear Abby" by the media, is author of the best-selling books Date Out Of Your League and Think & Date Like A Man, the two (just released) step-by-step dating and relationship manuals, Ideas for a Fun Date and Romantic Date Ideas, and the critically acclaimed dating and relationship online magazine www.AskApril.com.

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