Cool Workouts You Can Do When It’s Hot Outside
Summer is upon us, which means the temperatures are about skyrocket and things are about to get sticky and very, very hot.
The scorching sun rays and humidity sure make things sweaty and uncomfortable, but don’t let that stop you from achieving your fitness goals. Instead, let the dog days of summer fuel your creativity when it comes to your workout routine.
Need some inspo? Here are some cool ways to get your sweat on this summer.
Head to the Gym
When it’s warm outside the gym is the last place you want to head to. It’s no wonder most gyms are ghost towns during the summer months. However, there are a couple of upsides to hitting the gym when it’s hot outside. For starters, there’s typically A.C. at your gym and with fewer people (and less body heat), the cooler you’ll be. Which is why you should save your most intense workouts — i.e. heavy weight lifting and HIIT — for the gym.
Get Wet
This is a no-brainer. But working out in a pool is not only super refreshing but is also an excellent form of exercise. Swimming, for example, is an awesome low-impact cardiovascular activity that tones, tightens, and helps to build endurance. Or you might opt for a water aerobics, which helps burn fat, increases strength and flexibility, and is a perfect activity for pregnant women, seniors, and those with joint and muscle issues.
Join an Indoor Sport
Got a competitive edge? Then you might want to check out participating in an indoor sport, like squash, racquet ball, or boxing. A game of squash or racquetball will get your heart pumping as well as help improve your strength, balance, and coordination, while boxing is an amazing full-body workout that will burn fat, build muscle, and improve your core.
Create Your Own Gym at Home
Bodyweight workouts are both efficient and affordable, and the best part is you don’t have to leave your cool home to do them. You can easily create your own circuit training with a variety of simple-yet-effective exercises, like lunges, push-ups, planks, and squats, that will get you sweating in no time. Add in some easy cardio like jumping jacks and you won’t ever need a gym membership again. Browse through Pinterest and YouTube for some workout ideas.
Rise and Shine
If you’re a diehard outdoor runner and the idea of running the treadmill repulses you then your best bet is to hit the pavement first thing in the morning when outdoor conditions are cooler. Plus tackling a workout in the a.m. will not only give you that extra boost of energy for the day ahead but will also help you feel accomplished. Not a morning person? Save your daily run until the sun sets and the temps drop.
The Takeaway
The sluggish heat doesn’t have to bring you down with it. By using a little ingenuity and taking advantage of the warm weather’s advantages, you can keep fit this summer. Just don’t forget to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
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