With warmer weather and longer days rolling in, it's the perfect time to switch up your fitness routine for the summer. Whether you're looking to get in shape, stay active, or simply enjoy the outdoors, summer offers plenty of opportunities to stay fit under the sun. But the shift in weather and pace comes with its own set of challenges. Here are 5 easy tips to make the most of the good weather, while keeping things safe and getting results.
With outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and running becoming more frequent, fine-tuning your hydration and diet are a must. Hot weather increases how much you sweat, so you’ll need to drink more water to stay hydrated and keep your performance at peak levels.
And if you’re taking on new outdoor activities, your body may need different nutrients to fuel your new workouts. For example, if you’re adding more endurance-based activities than you’re used to, you may need to add extra carbs or electrolytes to your diet. Pay attention to what your body tells you and stay proactive about keeping yourself properly fueled and hydrated.
Adjust your workout schedule so you’re not out in the blazing sun during the hottest part of the day. The best time to work out outdoors is early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun isn’t beating down on you.
If you can, aim to work out before 9 AM or after 6 PM to avoid the harsh midday heat. If you can’t shift your workout schedule, consider choosing shaded areas and taking breaks to stay safe during peak hours.
When you’re gearing up for an outdoor workout, don’t forget to consider the heat. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials that help keep sweat at bay. You may even want to wear light-colored clothes that reflect sunlight. Also consider extra protection like a hat and sunglasses.
And don’t skimp on the sunscreen. Choose one with an SPF rating of at least 30 and reapply as directed. Protecting yourself from the sun will keep you comfortable while you work out and will prevent gnarly sunburns that could slow your fitness progress. More importantly, it will protect you from longer term effects from the sun.
Taking a break every now and then for some R&R is fine, but if you know it’s hard to get back into your routine after a vacation, it’s better to plan ahead and stay on track.
This may require a little creativity and planning, like booking a hotel with a gym or bringing some of your more portable equipment with you. You can even look for free classes in the area you’ll be staying in or take in the new views while you go for a run.
Summer is a great time to shake up your fitness routine. Try something new—like swimming, rock climbing, hitting up a new hiking trail, or even surfing if you’re near the coast.
Biking on a new trail or kayaking on a nearby lake can break up the monotony and make exercise feel less like a chore, and it’s a lot easier to stick with anything when you enjoy doing it.
With a little planning, you can make the most of the season while staying on track with your fitness goals. Whether you’re adjusting your routine for the heat, trying new outdoor activities, or sticking with your workouts on vacation, the key is staying consistent and having fun. So get out there, embrace the summer, and keep crushing your fitness goals.
