Now that the temps are heating up...here are some tips for staying cool when exercising outside!
- Dress cool! You want to wear clothes that wick sweat, not absorb it.
- If possible, carry a water bottle with you or wear a hydration belt. The goal is to drink 4-8 oz. of water every 20 minutes.
- Try to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Set that alarm and get your workout in before work!
- Make sure you start your workout hydrated.
- If you feel dizzy, out of breath more so than usual, stop and take a break. You don't want to end up with a trip to the ER. Listen to your body!
Try these healthy snacks to cool down post workout:
- Frozen fruit
- Homemade popsicles made from 100 percent fruit juice
- A pitcher of ice cold water with fruit slices, cucumber or mint
- Fruit smoothies
- Cold salads, loaded with raw vegetables, black beans or chickpeas, low-fat cheese or heart-healthy fish like albacore tuna or salmon
- Cold, crispy raw veggies
Download the American Heart Association's warm weather fitness guide.
Written by: Kelly Devine Rickert, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN
Registered Dietitian/Health Coach, Franciscan WELLCARE