Tips to Beat the Heat!
Safety reminders for exercising in the summer heat—or all year round!
Those of us who exercise as partial treatment for ADHD know that we need to be consistent & continue our routines through all 4 seasons. If we exercise outside for some of our workouts, like walking, jogging, running, swimming outdoors, gardening, we need to take into account the following reminders:
Check the temperature for your area. Note the time of the lowest and highest temperature for the day. Schedule your exercising to avoid the hottest part of the day, usually between 10 AM & 4 PM.
Check the humidity for the day. If both the temperature and humidity are high, exercising outside can be dangerous. Be sure to note the heat index for the day and adjust your workouts accordingly. Listen to your body. If you feel it’s too hot, do your workout inside.
SLOW DOWN! Regardless of the type of exercise, slow down the pace. Our bodies must adjust to the heat. Our heart has to do double duty- both pumping the blood to our organs and to help cool the body, and make sure we do not overheat.
STAY HYDRATED. Drink more water all the time. Remember that water is an essential nutrient along with Protein, Carbohydrates and Fats.
Wear clothing that is light colored and loose-fitting. Dark colors absorb the heat, and tight fitted clothing like leggings and stretch pants hold in the heat instead of dispelling it. Sweating is our body’s natural way of cooling itself. Clothing that holds in the heat increases our core body temperature.
A word: These are general tips. Always consult a doctor before starting any exercise program.