Summer workout

The right place

You don’t need to miss your workout when it’s hot, but you need to do it in the right place. So if you want to go running, don’t do it in the midday sun, but in the morning or evening. Strength training shouldn’t be done outside, but in an air-conditioned gym. Basically you should adapt the pace and intensity to the temperature. 

Activate your body’s own climate control

When your body temperature rises your sweat glands start to work. You body’s own climate control ensures that sweat evaporates on your skin, thereby cooling your body. Breathable clothes or bare skin can support this cooling effect. Humid weather disrupts this evaporation as there is lots of moisture in the air. So it is very important to drink lots so you don’t get dehydrated. Water, juices and isotonic drinks such as alcohol-free beer are good for this.

What exercises are suitable for a summer workout? 

Basically, when it’s hot you shouldn’t put too much strain on your body. But if you need to exercise, there are some exercises that are suitable and some you should avoid in the heat. So slow movements are better than fast ones. Sprinting isn’t a good idea in temperatures over 30 degrees. That’s why you sometimes see professional sportsmen who have circulatory problems due to the heat. 

Sit-ups and push-ups

If you are exercising in the gym, you can do all the exercises you do at any time of the year. But if you’re exercising at home or outside you need to make sure you do the right exercises. Sit-ups and push-ups are ideal. Because you’re not only standing, but on the ground.  This helps you save energy, which is an advantage in the heat. It’s important that you always have enough breaks so that your body can get  more energy. 

Swimming instead of jogging

Swimming can be a good alternative to running in the summer. In the indoor pool you won’t feel the heat outside. The benefit of swimming is that you use various different muscle groups.