No Excuses Exercise For the Summer

Your personal fitness is something that needs all year round attention. Yet, for many people the summer months can be a time when exercise drops off their daily agenda. "It's too hot", you may hear them groan. Really, though, that is just an excuse.

It is probably true to say that most people get out and about more in the summer, walking around outdoor parks and swimming at the beach, but for some the serious exercise can be set aside for the summer. That is not necessary, so here are a few tips to help you keep up the exercise routine all year:

1. Forget excuses about heat unless it really is up the 100's.

2. If it is uncomfortably hot, you can exercise at home with a fan or air conditioning to keep you cool, or exercise at dawn or dusk when it is cooler. I have moved to a tropical climate where it is summer all year. I often take out my mini stepper machine on the balcony after the sun rises and as darkness falls.

3. Dehydration can be a problem if you are not careful, so ensure you take water with you if exercising outside, and generally drink water regularly throughout the day.

4. If you go out into the heat from a cool room, start your exercises in a slow manner so that you can adjust to the higher temperature.

5. If you start to feel unwell, such as cramps and nausea get back inside. Don't overdo it.

6. Dress in cool, lightweight and light colored clothes.

7. Carry a towel with you for mopping your face and neck.

8. Protect your skin from too much sun. 20 minutes in full sun is enough, so exercise in shaded areas if possible. Coconut oil can be a good protector if you do not trust chemical laden sunscreens.

Really, summer exercise is a matter of attitude. Even if it is unbearably hot outside, half an hour indoor exercise is not so difficult. You can even break it up into two or three sessions.