Workout Safely in the Heat

By: Scottsdale Weight Loss Center
Published: July 15, 2013
A woman holding a water bottle outdoors under the summer sky.

Another Arizona summer is in full swing, but you don’t have to let high temperatures ruin your weight loss plans. Though working out unprepared in the heat can be dangerous, hot weather can actually make your workouts more effective, and taking a few precautions can help you safely enjoy your favorite workouts all summer long.

Using Heat to Your Advantage

Did you know that heat can actually help your workout? You may have heard of hot yoga classes where participants sweat buckets as they stretch through different poses. The heat is believed to boost your blood circulation and increase flexibility, and this can be true with more than just yoga. However, you’ll still need to be careful to stay hydrated and let your body adjust to higher temperatures.

Like all other things in life, heat takes time to adjust to. By taking the right precautions and allowing your body to acclimate to the increasing temperature you can enjoy outdoor workouts straight through summer.

Here are a few tips that will help you adjust to the heat this summer:

  • Allow your body to acclimate slowly to the heat. Don’t try to spend an hour running in the high-noon sun immediately. Instead, head out in the morning or evening when the heat is less intense. Start with short periods of exercise in the heat and move your way up to a full-length workout.
  • Drink plenty of fluids. Don’t just fill up your water bottle when you’re heading out to exercise. Plan your workout ahead of time and drink plenty of water during the two hours leading up to your workout. This way, you’ll be fully hydrated by the time you’re out there in the sun.
  • Wear sun protection. Sunscreen isn’t the only type of sun protection out there. Use hats and breathable clothing to your advantage during the summer to keep your body covered without locking sweat and heat in.

For most people, the process of adjusting to the heat takes about 14 days. That means that in the space of two weeks you can build up a decent tolerance to working out in the sun this summer. Keep up these healthy habits all summer long to stay on track with your weight loss goals.

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Based on 420 reviews
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Diana is the Best!!
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Sara M
12 days ago
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Great place 30 lbs.and counting thank you And now it is over 40 lbs. and counting thank you great job
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John J
29 days ago
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Best of the best - Dr. Z !!
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Mar S
33 days ago
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The Biltmore location is top notch! Everyone there is so very friendly, professional and makes the experience so personal and easy. Highly recommend!
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Sue M
35 days ago
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This practice is everything you would want from a physician office. Professional and knowledgeable staff and caring providers 10 stars!!!!
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Lisa Y
41 days ago
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Everything perfect
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Andi K
46 days ago
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I landed at Scottsdale Weight Loss 13 years ago and lost 50 pounds….regained 10 and then lost them again, plus another 20. It is a great program, and all the professionals are amazing and caring.
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Mj W
53 days ago
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SWL has been a God send to me! Dr. Guzman & staff especially Lilia & Bianca! They’re so supportive & professional I have lost approx 50 pounds over the year at my own pace.
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Donna L
55 days ago
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The staff at the Phoenix office are great! My experience with Dr deGuzman has been wonderful. Miriam has always been very helpful and makes the office visits pleasant and personal. The medical assistants have always been professional and great to help meet my goals.
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Paula S
81 days ago
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I really felt comfortable with Kristen at my initial appointment. Everyone at the center was caring and friendly, from Bianca, at the front desk, to Lily, who is the MA. Kristen listened to my frustrations and prior disappointments about what has not worked, and is confident that she can help me achieve my goals of weight loss. I am looking forward and excited to see the success I will attain.
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Joyce K
88 days ago
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Amazing staff and great program! Feeling great!
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Brian H
92 days ago
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I'd lost 20 pounds on my own and struggled to keep it off. I decided GLP-1 meds were the next step in losing more and keeping it off. I wanted a medical doctor supervised program and chose SWLC. I am so very glad I did! The team in Glendale is so supportive and kind; and when I feel discouraged, they pick me up with positive energy and input. They really do a great job with encouragement all the time. 6 weeks in I've lost 17 pounds, and am approaching weight loss with a very new perspective. Also knowing that when I reach my target goal, they'll be there through maintenance and beyond is encouraging as well. Good to not feel alone on this journey.
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Stephanie P
105 days ago
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