With the soaring temperatures of early June looking set to return mid summer it’s important for our overall heath and wellbeing to look at ways in which we can modify our methods of exercising in order to avoid become ill or injured during the hotter days ahead.

To get us off to a good start Abby McLachlan, Pilates Instructor & Founder of East of Eden provides 6 easy tips for working out in the heat, from low impact workouts to getting out in nature read on for Abby’s helpful advice on how to exercise safely in a heatwave.

1) Low Impact Workouts

When the weather gets hotter, we can often feel lethargic and sluggish. Switch up your workouts and opt for low intensity training which has many benefits.  Yoga, pilates or barre workouts are a great way to have a full body workout without putting stress on your joints. They are gentle on your body, whilst still achieving maximum results and are ideal during a heatwave. Many studio’s like East of Eden are now air conditioned, so you can workout whilst keeping cool and moving your body. Lower impact workouts that focus on strength don’t increase your body temperature as much as a HIIT workout for example, so are a great choice when you’re not in the mood for an intense high impact workout during the heat. 

2) Exercise early or late 

Avoid when the sun is at its peak which is between 11am and 3pm. I’d recommend working out early in the morning or late in the evening before the weather heats up. 

3) The right gear

Ensure you’re wearing light, breathable fabrics that will help your body stay cool. Wearing loose fitting, breathable clothing will allow the sweat to escape from your body and help keep your body cool. Heavy clothes will make you even hotter and raise your body temperature. 

4) Hydrate

During exercise and throughout the day, consuming regular fluids. The paler your urine the better as this is a sign that you’re well hydrated. You are more likely to be dehydrated when it’s hot so ensure you are drinking enough water, this can also help lower your body temperature by drinking up to three litres of water. 

5) Get out in nature

The warmer weather is a great chance to get out in nature and workout in shaded areas and green spaces. This is not only beneficial to your physical health, but also your mental health.  Exercising outside is free, something you can do with friends as a chance to socialise, and can also challenge your body in new ways as the terrain isn’t always flat like a gym or studio. 

6) Know your limits

Listen to your body - if you experience a headache, dizziness, confusion, sickness or fatigue, it’s best to rest and refuel. Listen to your body and stop your workout if you’re not feeling well. It’s important to be cautious when exercising during a hot day and modify your workout to ensure you stay safe in the heat.