We may all want that feeling of wind blowing through our hair during a morning jog, but there are some dangers in exercising outdoors.
In this week's How To, Bailey Mosier, a correspondent for EmpowHER, has basic steps on how to avoid heat injuries.
One of the most common heat-related injuries is dehydration. Mosier recommends drinking water at least 30 minutes before exercising and keeping up with at least 170 ml of water (3/4 of a cup) every 20 minutes in between your workouts.
And don't bring out your inner gold-winning Olympian just yet. Mosier suggests waiting at least 10 to 14 full days before starting an intense workout outdoors to let your body adapt to the weather.
In Canada, many regions experience heat waves that are announced by Environment Canada. Common heat injuries other than dehydration include fainting, vomiting, headaches, rapid breathing, extreme thirst and even decreased urination according to Health Canada.
But it's not all bad news -- there are definite benefits to skipping that treadmill in the basement. A the 2008 Scottish Health Survey found that outdoor physical activity had a 50 per cent greater positive effect on mental health than going to the gym.
All caught up with heat safety? Here are other reasons to take your next sweat session outside.
