Summer Workout Hazards To Watch For

By All American Fitness

Summer is already here, and it’s time to take out your best swimsuit and hit the beach. Maintaining a healthy figure during the summer can be a great goal to reach, but it’s important to take steps to protect yourself from the elements. The high summer temperatures can become a danger for your health while working and maintaining a fit summer body.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

One of the most dangerous effects on the body during high summer temperatures is heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion is when the body overheats and reaches a body temperature of 106 or higher. Some signs of heat exhaustion are dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, excessive sweating, muscle weakness or cramps, and a weak, rapid pulse. Heat exhaustion can even be fatal if not treated properly by medical professionals. Proper hydration, not going out during the peak hours of 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. and a shaded workout area can prevent heat exhaustion.

SUN DAMAGE

When exercising outside, it is likely that you will be exposed to the Sun’s harmful UV rays for long periods of time. Exposure to the sun can increase the chances of skin cancer and can damage your eyesight, and working out during peak hours can increase this risk. Make sure that you are using a sunblock with a rating of SPF30 or higher, wear a cap and sunglasses, and wear breathable long-sleeves and long pants in order to fully protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays. If possible, try finding a shaded area so that the sun’s rays won’t hit you directly.

DEHYDRATION

Drinking water when you feel thirsty may seem like a good thing, but your body naturally gives you the thirst reaction because it has already lost a lot of the water within your body. Dehydration can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, electrolyte abnormalities, kidney failure, shock, and even a coma. Make sure that you drink plenty of water a few days before your summer workout so that your body can have the necessary hydration to keep cool and energized throughout the whole workout routine. If possible, carry a water bottle and take water breaks constantly to help your body cool down and regain energy.

Current summers have become hotter and more dangerous compared to previous summers. This is unlikely to change anytime soon. Make sure that you take the correct measures in creating a healthy summer workout routine so you can protect yourself. Remember to always stay cool and hydrated for your workouts so your workouts can be helpful to your health instead of hurtful.

If you’re having trouble working outside in the heat and sun, why not work out inside instead? Try one of our great in-home workout machines!