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Summer Smarts for Staying Active
From the swing of a bat to the splash of a diver, it seems like all of the most popular outdoor activities take place in the summer. And why not? Everyone enjoys a little fun in the summer sun. However, it's important to play it safe. Overdoing it can land you with a heat-related illness—such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heatstroke.
Slow Down
Take it easy at first. If you're used to being active in cooler weather or indoors, your body needs a little time to adjust to the heat. Once you've adjusted, you'll feel better, and you can go forward full-throttle.
Drink Up
Drink plenty of water—even if you don't feel thirsty. Another option is a sports drink, which also can replace the sodium, chloride, and potassium you lose through sweating. However, keep an eye on the calories. You don't want to undo all your work by loading up on calories—especially if you aren't getting the nutrients you need in return!
Dress Cool
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to promote sweat evaporation and cooling. Also, consider the fabric. There are all kinds of new fabrics out there that wick sweat away from your body, unlike traditional cotton or polyester.
Stay Shaded
Try to exercise in the morning or evening, when it's likely to be cooler outdoors. You'll get a lot more out of an evening stroll than a miserably hot walk at noon. If you can, stick to the shade—or even the cool comfort of a pool.
Wear Sunscreen
A sunburn can raise your body temperature even higher—plus, it's not good for your skin. So, make sure to lather up. There are all kinds of waterproof, sweat-proof, workout-ready sunscreens out there.
Listen Up
Pay attention to your body. If you stop sweating, feel nauseous, get goose bumps, or feel light-headed during your activity, your body is trying to tell you something: Stop! Summer activity is meant to be fun—so keep it that way, and don't push yourself too hard.
Topics:
Seasonal Advice, Exercise Advice
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Start Making Choices does not provide medical advice.
Information is intended for educational purposes only. See additional information.
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