Summer is here! And like Olaf, we all love the idea of summer until it’s time to work out in this heat. But it doesn’t have to be miserable. If you make a few simple changes in what you wear, what you eat and some small swaps in your routine; it can actually be enjoyable.
In this post, I’m sharing easy ways to make your summer workouts more comfortable and fun. It’s all about getting smarter with your choices so you can stay consistent, feel good, and keep hitting your fitness goals.
@disneyuk We’re all Olaf until we realise you could fry an egg on the pavement in this heatwave. 🔥 Watch Frozen on @Disney+ #olaf #britishsummer ♬ original sound – Disney UK
What to Wear: Stay Cool, Comfortable and Confident
Summer workout wear is also about staying cool, comfortable and looking confident while trying to stay fit. Here are some insights on how you can be comfortable while staying active.
Go for Breathable Fabrics
The first thing you should do – ditch those heavy workout clothes. Go for fabrics that let your skin breathe and keep you cool. Cotton and Spandex Combo fabric are breathable and great for people with sensitive skin. Lululemon has some great breathable gear, perfect for running or yoga in the sun.
Quick Tip: Look for fabrics that dry quickly and don’t cling to your skin. That way, you’re comfy even after a full-on sweat session.
Light Compression Gear
Compression gear isn’t just for the winter months! But when it’s hot outside, choose lightweight options. Compression helps support your muscles, but you don’t need to feel like you’re suffocating in it. Under Armour’s got some nice breathable compression wear that’s perfect for summer.
Quick Tip: Compression wear helps with muscle fatigue, but don’t go too tight. Make sure it’s light and breathable for warm weather.
Don’t Forget Sun Protection
If you’re working out outside, protect your skin! Look for gear with built-in UV protection or just add a hat and sunglasses. Nike offers some great UV-protective gear that’ll keep you safe while still feeling comfortable.
Quick Tip: Sunscreen is a must, even if your clothes have UV protection. Go for SPF 30+ to keep your skin safe while you break a sweat.
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What to Eat: Fuel Your Summer Workouts Right
Fuel your body with the right foods and protein rich snacks when working out. Try adding some of these foods and hydration techniques to your diet plan.
Pre-Workout Snacks That Give You Energy
Before you dive into your workout, grab a snack that’ll give you a boost without weighing you down. Think fruit, a smoothie, or a banana with almond butter. If you need a quick pre-workout snack, MyProtein’s got protein bars and shakes that’ll fuel you up without making you feel heavy.
Quick Tip: Carbs are your friend before a workout. A banana or a smoothie with berries will give you that energy kick you need without the sluggish feeling.
Protein-Packed Foods for Recovery
After you work out, your body needs some TLC. Protein is key to muscle recovery, so go for chicken, tofu, or even a protein shake. Huel has great protein shakes that are quick and easy, perfect for post-workout recovery.
Quick Tip: Try to eat protein within 30 minutes of finishing your workout. It’ll help your muscles recover and rebuild faster.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Hydration is very important, especially in the summer heat. You’re sweating more than usual, so you need to replace all those lost fluids. Drink plenty of water throughout your workout, and if you’re really sweating, add an electrolyte drink to keep your body balanced.
Quick Tip: Make sure you’re drinking water before, during, and after your workout. The NHS suggests drinking at least 6 – 8 glasses of water a day, more if you’re sweating it out in the heat.
For more tips on improving your health during the summer months, check out my article on unexpected ways to improve health this summer.
What to Swap: Small Changes for Big Impact
Sometimes, committing to a complete overall of everything we wear and eat can be intimidating. Instead focus on some small changes you can make without hurting your bank account.
Swap Heavy Gear for Breathable Clothing
Swapping out heavy, clingy fabrics for breathable gear can make all the difference in summer. Bamboo is a naturally sweat-wicking, antimicrobial material that helps keep you cooler and fresher for longer. Invested Athlete makes bamboo t-shirts that are soft enough for rest days but durable enough for intense sessions – perfect if you’re after something that works hard without feeling like it.
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Swap Intense Workouts for Something Lower-Impact
If high-intensity workouts are feeling too much in the heat, it might be time to swap them for something a bit easier on the body. Think swimming, cycling, or yoga. They’ll keep you moving without overheating. Here’s a guide to easy ways to make fitness a daily habit that will help you stay on track.
Swap Processed Snacks for Fresh Foods
We all get snack cravings, but instead of reaching for that bag of chips, go for something fresh and whole. Fresh fruit, veggies and healthy fats are great for keeping you energised without the guilt and crash later on. Grab a handful of almonds or a smoothie with some leafy greens. If you are ready to commit to a more healthier lifestyle, how about trying a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle and testing how it can boost your fitness and health.
Swap Sitting for Active Recovery
You don’t have to sit around doing nothing, on your rest days. Swap sitting on the couch for a bit of active recovery. Go for a light walk or do some gentle stretching to keep your body moving and help with recovery.
Swap Negative Thoughts for Positive Motivation
Summer workouts can be hard, especially with the heat. But instead of focusing on how tough it is, focus on the small wins. Celebrate getting outside and doing something active, even if it’s just a quick 20-minute session.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Summer Fitness Journey
There you have it, some simple swaps that can make a big difference in how you feel during your summer workouts. Whether it’s what you wear, what you eat, or how you approach your routine, these little changes will help you stay comfortable, motivated, and on track this summer.
Ready to take your fitness to the next level? Check out our training services and let’s crush those goals together!
