The Best Times for Outdoor Summer Workouts

Introduction

Summer is here, and with its arrival comes the question, “Should I work out outside?” With this summer’s record heat, one should pay close attention to the time of day to plan a workout. So, are mornings, afternoons, or evenings the right choice for you?

Morning

Early mornings around 5 AM are the coolest part of the day. As the sun rises, the temperature increases until its afternoon peak. Thus, should one’s schedule permit, morning workouts may be the best option for avoiding heat-related illnesses. One should consider, however, the lack of sunlight at this time of day. People with difficulty seeing in dim light may want to opt for a different time.

Afternoon

The sun is at its peak during the afternoon. With this peak comes the highest heat levels of the day and an amount of light that can temporarily impair a person’s vision. If a person chooses to exercise at this time of day, hydration and eye protection is key. Make sure you drink plenty of water and consider wearing sunglasses to protect your vision. Know your limits and make sure you can reach out to others in the case of an emergency.

Evening

As the sun starts to set, the temperature starts to cool down. Those who work full-time may wish to opt for this time of day. As with morning workouts, be cautious when working out in dim lighting.

The Big Picture

Ultimately, of course, exercise must work around your schedule. Just make sure to check weather conditions and prepare for emergencies.

Warm regards,

Brenna