The weather is warming up, but that doesn't mean you have to warm down your fitness routine! If you run outdoors, you want to make sure you are properly protecting yourself from the heat, especially now that it's summer. Here are some tips to help keep you healthy while running in the heat!
- Try to run early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Temperatures will be cooler near sunset. While you probably don't want to run in the dark unless you are in a safe area and you are wearing reflective gear, you can get the benefits of the cool weather running during sunset and sunrise. Plus, what sounds more beautiful than a nice run with a beautiful sunset?
- Bring cold water with you while you run. Water is important for just about every bodily process we have. In this case, running with a cold bottle of water will help you regulate your temperature even in the heat.
- Wear light clothing. Warm weather is no time to break out long sleeves! Instead, spring for some cute running shorts, a tank top, or even just a sports bra. It also might benefit you to wear a headband to catch your sweat and keep it out of your eyes.
- Wear sunscreen. You don't need me to explain why sunscreen is so important to wear all the time! It is especially important to apply sunscreen liberally when the temperatures get hotter.
- Don't be nervous if you are running more slowly when it's hot out. Your body is expending more energy in the heat, so you may be getting just as good of a workout even if you aren't running as fast or as far. Instead of focusing on distance or speed, focus on effort level. This will help you from fatiguing yourself.
