Sweating It Out, Summer Style

Summer is coming to a close, but that doesn't mean the steamy weather won’t stick around for a bit longer. And when you are exercising in the sizzling hot outdoors, it's smart to keep a few things in mind to ensure you stay healthy and maintain enough energy to get you through a sweat session. Check out these pointers before the next time you hit the pavement and you will maximize your exercise results.
 
*Sip water. Lots of it. And don’t count on thirst to give you a heads up because a parched tongue usually means you are already dehydrated.
 
*Take it easy. When you step outside for a workout in muggy weather, you may want to take it down a notch. Lowering the difficulty of a workout will reduce your risk for injury and not take such a toll on your body.
 
*Dress for heat success. Be sure to wear breathable clothing and avoid workout gear that might sap water from your body, like rubberized sweat suits.
 
*Shield your skin. Slather on the sunscreen before stepping outside, and pick one that has a SPF 15 or higher. You also want to be sure it is sweat-resistant so it doesn't slide off when your heart starts pumping.
 
*Become a summer early bird. Your schedule may not always allow it, but try to workout in the morning to avoid higher temperatures. You may also want to try exercising in the early evening for the same effect.
 
The number one thing to remember, however, is that sometimes exercising in the heat is not an option—there is such a thing as it being too hot to workout. Play it safe and use your best judgment. If it’s too hot, go for a dip in the pool—playing it cool poolside can be a workout, too!
 
We want to know: Do you have a summer exercise strategy? [Los Angeles Times]