How Do I Safely Exercise in the Sun? Great article for these hot summer days!

How Do I Safely Exercise in the Sun?

Your Guide to Safe Summer Fitness

By

Kathleen Finn

 

After a long winter of rain, snow, and ice—and more than a few cancelled workouts—getting outside to move your body is a physical and psychological boon. The sun stimulates production of vitamin D, an essential nutrient for bone development, and serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is partly responsible for our feelings of emotional contentment. So, take advantage of the sun’s rays, but exercise a few precautions and you’ll have an energizing rather than exhausting summer fitness routine.

Timing is everything

Plan your outdoor workouts for early morning or late afternoon. The sun is at its hottest, and its rays are strongest, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., putting you at risk for dehydration, sunburn, and heat-related conditions. If the temperature climbs to 90°F (32°C) or higher, substitute your planned strenuous activity with a more moderate one. Be strategic when choosing your running, walking, and biking routes; look for shaded bike paths, parks, and trails.

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