The warmer weather is exactly what you need to get motivated to exercise, get some sun, and live life to the fullest. The summer will certainly inspire you to start moving yet there is the potential for an injury or even overexertion. Be careful, follow the safety tips detailed below and you will stay healthy and happy while exercising this summer.
Drink Fluids With Care
It is a mistake to consume caffeine before exercising in the hot sun. Your body will lose fluids as you sweat and soak up the sun’s rays. Caffeine dehydrates the body as at is a natural diuretic. Therefore, you will lose fluids throughout the day that much faster if you start it off with a cup of coffee, an energy drink or another caffeinated beverage. Instead, drink water or a sports drink with electrolytes. Keep in mind, senior citizens lose some of their ability to retain water as they age. Dehydration has the potential to cause heat stroke and even death.
Avoid Direct Sun Exposure
Your skin should not be subjected to direct sunlight for more than 10-15 minutes at a time. If you are wearing short sleeves or shorts, slather on the sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your aging skin against the sun’s nasty UV rays. Try to plan your Philadelphia outdoor activities and exercise for times when the sun is setting or rising so you are not subjected to the sun’s wrath during the middle of the day.
Mind Your Clothing
Take a little bit of time to think about the best clothing to wear as you exercise. Clothes with long sleeves will safeguard your arms, preventing the sun from causing skin damage and potentially leading to skin cancer. However, you’ll get that much hotter wearing pants and long sleeves in the summer. Consider stocking up on exercise gear with breathable fabric that helps you stay cool while the sweat is wicked away. Wear polarized sunglasses along with a wide-brimmed hat each time you step outside in Philadelphia and you will stay that much cooler.
Take Breaks
Do not attempt to complete an entire workout or a full hike without stopping. Take a break every 20 minutes or so. If it is especially hot or humid, take a lengthy break every 10 minutes or so. Chill out in a shaded area with a bench or table to sit on, down some cool water, and give your body a chance to adjust to the blazing hot Philadelphia summer air. If you have any washcloths or similar items, wet them with water, and apply them to your wrists, neck, and face to help you cool down that much faster.
Aurora Home Care is at Your Service
Do you live in the greater Philadelphia area and need home care or know someone who does? Our team is a call away. Reach out to our Philadelphia home care providers today at 215-354-4444. You can also contact us by email at info@auroraathome.com.
