How to Stay Active in the Summer Heat

It doesn’t matter where you are in the country this summer, there seems to be only one temperature setting… and it’s hot.

While we all still want to remain active with our exercise routines, sometimes it can be difficult to stay cool, comfortable and motivated out in the sweltering heat. Here are a few tips so that you can still enjoy the great outdoors and even find some indoor activities you’ll enjoy just as much!

Find the water

It goes without saying that a dip in the pool, lake or ocean will cool you right off…so make sure you get there! Here are a few ideas for the water:

  • Swim. Whether you want to swim laps at the pool or tread water at the lake, swimming is a great, low-impact way to build your cardio endurance. You won’t even feel like you’re burning calories thanks to the cool, refreshing water.
  • Walk on the beach. Walking (or jogging) in sand is an intense workout that your glutes and calves will thank you for. Better yet, bring your dog and he/she will thank you too! If you get a little toasty? Not to worry; the ocean is right there to cool you down.
  • Water volleyball. Grab some friends and a volleyball and jump in the pool instead of on the court. It may not feel as intense as diving in the sand, but swimming and jumping in the water will still do wonders!
Summer in Redgranite
Summer in Redgranite / Just Add Light / CC BY 2.0

Join a gym or a class

Now is the perfect time to test out the latest in fitness classes – from bootcamp to Zumba. Not only do you not have to worry about motivating yourself in a class setting, but most of these classes will be held indoors in the glorious AC.

Be an early bird or a night owl

If a treadmill just isn’t doing it for you, get up early or go out late and get your run in. Before the sun’s had a chance to bring the temperature up or long after it’s gone down is the perfect time to get a few miles in without the fear of heat exhaustion. But remember: when you’re running at dawn or dusk, be sure to wear bright colors and even bring a flashlight so that vehicles can see you.

And don’t forget…

Even the best of us forget to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. With the heat, it’s important to drink even more water due to a higher chance of dehydration. For more information on staying hydrated, check out these Healthy Hydration tips from Allison Stowell.

Also, whether you plan on being outside for 5 minutes or 5 hours, be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen to yourself and your family.

What about you? What are your favorite ways to stay active in the summer heat?