Summer Survival Guide
Summer is winding down, but we're not out yet! We may only have a few weeks left of summer, but staying cool is as important as ever. We've prepared a few tips to ensure everyone remains cool and enjoys the last stretch of summer's heat!
The summer heat can drastically affect your mental and physical health. There's no need to change your workout habits just because it's hot - adjust your eating or drinking habits or things around your house to ensure you're getting the maximum value out of your workout!
1. Be Appliance Wise
During the summer heat, avoid using hot appliances such as the oven, stove, or dryer. Alternatives to these are using a microwave, toaster oven, and air drying your clothes. You'll find that your apartment or home's temperature will drop significantly by avoiding these appliances!
2. Think Bigger
And we mean WAY bigger. If you're living in a freestanding house, or a house with a front or backyard, consider planting large trees for extra shade coverage. Of course, this isn't an immediate solution to cooling your home, but you won't regret it years down the road!
3. Breathable Bedding
Having different bedsheets for the winter and summer seasons is a must. Lightweight fabrics such as cotton and linen are great for the hot summer months. These fabrics allow your sweat to dissipate instead of trapping it in like other fabrics do. Or, cooling pads are a great solution to curing those sticky summer nights.
4. Increase Air Conditioner Efficiency
Give your air conditioner a break by letting a fan do the work. Position fans around your AC to help spread the cool air evenly throughout your home. Experts estimate for each degree you set closer to 78° F, you save 4% on your energy bills! Always remember, work smart, not hard.
5. Eat Light
This may not come as news, but refraining from eating heavy foods will drastically cool your body down. Instead of eating three large meals a day, spread your meals out and snack a bit. Or, you can still enjoy your favorite hot dishes served cold! A summer pasta salad, chicken salad, or sandwich always hits the spot on a hot summer day.
6. Stay Hydrated
Many of us don't drink enough water in the heat as we're supposed to. If you're wondering how much you need to drink, the answer is probably more than you think! It's always better be over hydrated than dehydrated. Experts recommend at least 1 glass of water every 30-90 minutes during the summer, and more if you're doing physical activities. Drinks such as alcohol and coffee are very dehydrating, so if you are consuming these drinks be sure to offset them with plenty of water.
The heat is no excuse not to exercise! Avoid the sun by jumping on your freebeat home exercise bike in your cool cardio studio. Set up your workout area with fans, plenty of water, towels, and snacks. Eliminate the sweaty commute or gym showers and ride in the comfort of your own home!
