Heat-Proof Fitness

Hot enough for ya?

The answer to the tired old small talk question is, almost unanimously, YES.

Record high temperatures have made the summer for large portions of the nation all but unbearable so far. And there’s little relief in sight for most of us, as the crisp days of fall seem light years in the future.

The heat isn’t so bad for those who are free to spend their days sipping iced tea on a porch swing or lounging by the pool. And even people who work most of their days in a nicely air-conditioned building get some reprieve during business hours.

But when it’s quitting time and they step out into the sweltering evening, what are the odds they’re looking forward to any kind of outdoor exercise?

You haven’t worked this hard to get your employees excited about exercise just to let a little (or a lot of) heat spoil it for everyone. Now’s the time to suggest more summer-friendly alternatives to the workout routines they’ve adopted.

Swimming is a great way to beat the heat and get in a whole-body workout at the same time. It’s an enjoyable activity for most people, too, and one that the whole family can get into. A trip to the community pool can become a daily habit and serve as a nice break from a workout that doesn’t adapt well to extreme temperatures.

Another way to make sure they don’t give up when it’s too hot to take on an outdoor workout is to suggest a trial gym membership, where they can try out some new exercise equipment in the comfort of an indoor arena. Maybe by the time their trial runs out, they’ll be ready to hit the road once more. Or, even better, they may decide they like the gym and keep the membership as a supplement to their regular routine.

Walking around a mall or some other air-conditioned building is an easy and fun way to fit in some physical activity and maybe do a little window shopping at the same time.

For the sticklers who won’t consider changing their current exercise plan despite the weather, make sure they’re well-equipped with all the information they need to exercise safely in extreme heat. Consider hydration, appropriate clothing, sun safety, and tips on recognizing symptoms of heat-related illnesses and what to do about them.

Soon enough, the heat wave will pass. Until then, brainstorm other ways to keep your employees moving in a safe, heat-smart way.

Health News this Week: