Cardio activity mixed with hot weather can put your body under a lot of strain, raising body temperatures and raising your heart rate. This is especially true in high humidity, because sweat evaporates more slowly from your skin, making heat dissipation more difficult. You should be cautious about walking in the heat, no matter how fit you are, especially if the humidity is high. Warm temperatures combined with heavy humidity will slow you down and make your stroll more challenging.
Here are a few tips for surviving the heat and humidity when walking:
Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, there’s a place for you to escape the hottest portion of the day—usually between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.—go for a walk early in the morning or late in the evening.
Look for the shade as direct sunlight can increase the temperature by up to 15 degrees! Look around your area to see if there are any trees.
Sweat is more easily evaporated from bare arms and legs. (Sunscreen is recommended, even under your shirt.)
Dampen your shirt and you’ll have instant air conditioning!
Make your thirst go away by Filling a half-full water bottle with ice and then top it off as you leave. While walking, take sips at regular intervals. Every 15 minutes, should suffice. Weigh yourself before and after your stroll as an extra precaution against dehydration. Drink up if you’ve lost a few pounds. You’ve lost critical fluid for your body’s cooling system.
Lightweight ventilated walking shoes and sweat-wicking socks are essential for warm-weather walks. The mesh is cooler than leather when your feet sweat and dry faster. Alternatively, a walking sandal could be used.
When you can push yourself and when it’s time to coast, your body will tell you. Stop the exercise and go to a cool spot if you get a headache, feel dizzy, or are weak. Rest and drink plenty of cool liquids.
We are by no means experts so do your own research first and use common sense but most of all enjoy yourselves and have fun.