We are all aware of the importance of leading an active lifestyle, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend lots of time in a stuffy gym. Outdoor exercise is not only free, and often easier to fit into your busy schedule, it can also be more fun and offer some advantages over working out indoors. That is why I always try to spend more time outdoors when the weather is nice and sunny.
The weather is sunny, the sky is blue and with the longer days, it’s easy to find time to work out outdoors. From running or walking around your neighborhood to working out at the park to activities like hiking or kayaking during the weekend there are a lot of ways to be active. And working out outdoors has lots of benefits: there are no membership fees, you get to breath cleaner air, and getting close to nature helps you relieve stress. 
Tips for Exercising Outdoors During Summer
Exercising outdoors is good for you and fun but there are some things you need to take into consideration to get the most of your outdoor workout and stay safe. Here are some of my favorite tips and trips for a great outdoor workout this summer.
- Start drinking water before your workout. Drink one or two glasses of water before heading outdoors. You can also follow these tips to stay hydrated while working out outdoors.
- Take drinking breaks. Schedule drinking breaks every 15 minutes even if you’re not feeling thirsty.
- Freeze your water bottle. To keep your water cool for a longer period of time fill it halfway and freeze overnight, then top it off with fresh cold water before leaving. I always bring at least two water bottles and do this with both. Another option is to invest in a high quality water bottle that stays cold for longer periods of time.
- Choose activities in the water or in shaded areas. Working out can be fun when you do an activity like windsurfing, surfing, paddle boarding or swimming. These are all great summer activities and all provide a great workout. Summer time is also a great time to learn something new like kayaking, once you learn the basics you will be paddling in no time.
- Don’t forget the sunscreen. Apply it 30 minutes before sun exposure. Look for sweat resistant sunscreen and reapply every hour or two.
- Choose the right clothes. Always wear a hat to protect your face from the sun and choose clothing that breathes and wicks moisture. It’s also a great idea to invest in a good cooling neck wrap, they help you cool when the weather gets really hot.
- Timing is important. Avoid being outdoors during the hottest hours of the day. I schedule workouts at the park early in the morning or in the evening when most of the outdoor workout equipment is shaded.
- Plan for shade. Pick trails or activities that provide shade and make sure to look for shade when taking a break. The less time you spend under direct sunlight the better. You can also check out my secret for staying cool here.
- Don’t forget to warm up and cool down. Whether you’re trail running, kayaking or training outdoors be sure to stretch, warm up and cool down avoid injuries.
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I never thought about the whole filling the water bottle halfway thing before going out. I always forget about the water bottle being fully frozen and never getting a drink when I’m out walking or exercising. I guess I’ll go fix my water after reading this haha
Definitely great ideas! I like to stay active. Once in a while I get the chance to workout outdoors with my husband. I’m going to share this post with him. Thanks for sharing!
Candace Hampton
http://www.thebeautybeau.com
In fact, the desire to exercise outside is very little in this period and this is why I am looking for inspiration from the outside and these tips are excellent!
I love going outside for exercise. I always have a lot more fun that way!
These are really helpful tips, especially about freezing your water bottle and prepping your hydration beforehand. I always find that if I’m not hydrated enough I tend to feel lightheaded and get overheated quickly.
This is awesome! I am a huge fan of outdoor workouts, it is fun and entertaining, love it.
These are cool and awesome tips. You’re right, when it’s hot and you work out you need something to keep you fresh as well. I learned a lot from here.
Excellent tips! It’s already so warm here, we need to start extra early to be outside.
I love jogging outside when the weather is lovely, there’s nothing compared to exercising outside. I prefer to do it early in the morning because it’s more quiet and it’s like moving meditation.