Beat the heat: tips to stay active this summer
by LiveLighter,
- January 31, 2023
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Summer is in full swing! At this time of year, the long and warm days can make for the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and move our bodies in energising ways. Here are our top tips to help you stay active while the weather is warmer – and make sure you’re doing so safely.
Time of day matters
Summer is the perfect time to take full advantage of fun outdoor activities and sports like cycling, tennis, rollerblading, hiking, or a swim in the ocean.
To beat the heat and prevent heat stroke, try to schedule outdoor activities for a cooler part of the day – such as the early morning or late evening when the UV radiation is less harsh.
Bonus: you might catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset at these times of the day!
Hydration is key!
Carry a refillable drink bottle and make sure to drink plenty of water. Keeping hydrated is important for keeping our fluids up and staying cool. Water is usually the best choice of drink while exercising – try to avoid sugary sports drinks, sodas, and juices.
Tip: Add our healthy cucumber skewers or fruity ice cubes to keep cool and infuse your water with tasty flavours (minus the sugar!)
Wear sun-protective clothing
When outdoors, cover up as much skin as possible with long, loose-fitting clothing, a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Don’t forget to apply at least SPF 30 sunscreen twenty minutes before you go outside and reapply every two hours to protect your skin from UV radiation. Download the SunSmart Global UV app for UV information based on your location and check out the SunSmart website for tips to best protect your skin.
Wearing moisture-wicking fabrics, and avoiding dark colours (especially black!), can also help you keep cool while working up a sweat!
Get shady
Where possible, try and limit outdoor activities to shadier spots, out of the direct sunshine. For example, a nice shady area under a tree in your local park could be the perfect spot for your next yoga workout and meditation.
When it’s just too hot to be outdoors…
On some days it’s just too hot and uncomfortable to be outside. But when that happens you can organise an indoor active catch-up instead! Meet up with a friend at your local leisure centre for a swim or gym session or try an online pilates class from the comfort of your living room. There's plenty of inspiration on the LiveLighter website with our new workout builder which has routines based on level, duration, focus and equipment available.
What are your favourite ways to stay active in summer? Let us know in the comments below.
