The summer months are here and many people will be taking advantage of the nice weather to get outside and exercise. But did you know that sun exposure can affect your workout? The sun’s not your enemy. In fact, it’s crucial to your health. But too much sun can lead to skin damage and even skin cancer — and no one wants that.
Here are six tips for exercising safely in the heat:
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise to keep hydrated and avoid overheating — especially if you’re exercising in hot weather or humidity levels are high. If you’re exercising in extreme temperatures or humidity levels, take a break every 15 minutes or so to rest and drink some water before continuing your workout routine!
- Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and broad-spectrum protection (meaning it blocks both UVA and UVB rays). Apply it 30 minutes before going outside and then again at least every two hours.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat for shade when possible — preferably one with a four-inch brim that extends beyond your neckline.
- Wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UV rays to protect your eyes from sun damage. Look for shades with polarized lenses that reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water.
- Stay out of the midday sun, when UV rays are strongest and most likely to cause burns or other damage.
- Wear long sleeves and pants to protect the skin on your arms and legs from sunburns. If you’re exercising during midday hours when the sun is strongest, consider wearing long sleeves and pants even if they aren’t as comfortable as shorts or a tank top — especially if you have fair skin or burn easily! Wear light-colored clothing made of tightly woven fabric that doesn’t absorb heat as easily as loose, lightweight fabrics like cotton or silk do.
