The summer months bring heat waves, intense humidity, and more. Sometimes these summer months will cut down your training, especially if you aren’t taking the right precautions to beat the heat. Depending on where you are the heat will drain your energy in different ways. If you are noticing a decline of energy, a lack of motivation, or a dread to go outside, focus on your pre-exercise routine.
Heat is one of the most important things to think about before participating in outdoor sports. In today’s blog, Hoover Met Complex lists five simple fixes that will help you to beat the heat this summer.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated might seem like the obvious solution to this problem; however, many people completely disregard it. Before going outside, or before any extended athletic activity such as a sports camp, it is essential to drink a lot of water! If the humidity is high, it will cause you to sweat more, needing you to replenish those liquids. Drinking water also lowers your body temperature, which delays side-effects of heat exhaustion.
Eat Cool Foods
Eating something cold like a popsicle is a great way to beat the heat. Something as simple as this will help to cool your body down as you rest. Make sure to pack a cooler if you’re going somewhere to practice or play. When you can participate in outdoor sports, it is smart to put snacks and drinks in a cooler to munch on over your water breaks.
Rest Frequently
It is very easy to get overheated in the summer. If you are spending a majority of your time out in the sun, make sure to rest frequently. Whether it be in a shaded area or an indoor sports complex, getting out of the sun is a top priority.
Even something as simple as a 15-minute break every hour of practice will help to prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration. Depending on where you are at, this time will vary. Always make sure to check the weather for heat advisories before you leave for the day!
Dress the Part
Wearing cool clothing while you are exercising is a must. Choose lightweight, breathable, and loose-fitting clothing during the day, as this will help control the effects of intense heat. Another thing to think about before heading outside is applying sunscreen. At Hoover Met Complex, we recommend always applying sunscreen before spending the day in the open sun!
Know the Symptoms
An important piece of information to know is being able to notice the early signs of heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion can be severe and must be addressed immediately if there are warning signs. Some of the most common symptoms of heat exhaustion and dehydration are:
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Headache
- Muscle Cramping
- Fatigue
If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or others, get into a cool and safe environment. Make sure to drink a lot of water while you rest!
Staying Cool at Hoover Met Complex
Hoover Met Complex offers a variety of summer sports camps, outdoor sports games, and outdoor facilities that are very popular for the summer months. We care about your safety as you have fun on the fields, and we offer indoor facilities to cool down, as well as trained staff to come to with any concerns. If you are looking for a fun and safe way to spend the summer, visit our website and sign up for an outdoor sports camp! Contact us for more information or visit our complexes yourself at 100 Ben Chapman Drive.
Related Blog: How to Prepare for an Outdoor Sports Camp
