During the summer months, many choose to take their workout outdoors so they can enjoy the beautiful weather. After all, the fresh air can help boost your immune system and an outdoor workout can even improve attention and focus and lower an individual's risk of being overweight, according to the Huffington Post. But in order for you to have a successful workout, you must stay safe while doing so. Factors like sunburn, heat and dehydration can really put a damper on the overall effectiveness of your workout and can be dangerous. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind the next time you venture outdoors for exercise:
Check the forecast
While it's often not too hot to run outside, there may be days during the summer that pose a danger to anyone breaking a sweat outside. Before you begin your workout, check the weather forecast. Pay special attention to the humidity, because about 50 percent humidity can make a 90-degree day feel closer to 96. Debi Pillarella, ACE-certified master trainer and fitness expert, told Fitness Magazine that high humidity prevents sweat from evaporating, which prevents the body from naturally cooling off. If the humidity is too high, you may want to reschedule your workout or take it indoors.
Drink plenty of water
Warmer temperatures often mean you'll be sweating a lot more. Because you'll be losing so much water, you need to be sure that you're taking water in just as fast. Remember to stay hydrated at all times and bring a water bottle with you on those outdoor workouts. The H2O may also help to cool your body down on a particularly hot day.
Wear sunscreen
Even if it's a particularly cloudy day, never skip the sunscreen if you're going to be breaking a sweat outdoors. Use about a shot glass worth from head to to toe. If you're going to be outside for more than two hours, remember to reapply to avoid getting burned. Keep in mind that the more you sweat, the more you're going to have to reapply sunscreen. For extra sun precautions, wear sunglasses and a hat to protect your scalp from the rays.
Go at the right time
The early morning and late evening are when air pollution levels are at their lowest. Things like car exhaust, construction dust and factory fumes can contaminate the air, which could cause poor lung health.
