Stay active and stay cool as summer heats up

Oh Canada! We spend our winters waiting for summer, and our summers wishing it wasn’t quite so hot! Happily, exercising outdoors throughout the summer is a safe option for most people, providing a few common-sense tips are followed. Here’s what experts suggest:

• Keep your cool: Exercise at the coolest time of day. In summer, this typically means early in the morning or late in the day. Wear clothing that wicks away moisture and breathes.
• Seek shade: When walking, running or cycling, choose routes that offer some shade.
• Stay hydrated: Be sure to have a water bottle along and if you’ll be out for an extended period, know where you can re-fill or buy more if necessary.
• Protect your skin: Protect your skin with sunscreen and re-apply it often, especially when sweating. Wear a hat with a wide brim and sunglasses. Consider long sleeves and light-weight pants for additional coverage.
• Rest: A tennis and running enthusiast, I spend a lot of time exercising outdoors throughout the summer. When the weather heats up, take frequent short breaks to rest, re-hydrate, and to re-apply sunscreen.
• Beware the glare: Watch out for heat stroke. If you become dizzy, nauseous, or have dry skin or the chills, stop and get indoors or into shade and have something to drink. If it doesn’t pass, seek medical attention.

PS – You might also enjoy 8 easy ways to get an outdoor workout this season or this feature with tips to help us sneak in more exercise each day!