How to exercise safely in the heat

Key to Life Health and Fitness • January 31, 2023

How to exercise safely in the heat

With the weather warming up its important to think about how to exercise safely in the heat.


NPR (National Public Radio in the USA) asked two specialists in heat and exercise — Carol Ewing Garber, professor of movement science at Columbia University and Dr. Matt Leonard, attending emergency physician at Suburban Hospital, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine (both regular exercisers) — to discuss the science behind exercising in the heat, how to keep your body safe, and what to do if you suspect you or someone you're with has heat exhaustion or heat stroke.


Their 10 tips to stay safe when you exercise in hot weather are:


1. Don't eat right before you head out


2. Protect your skin – it's the body's cooling system


3. Wear material that will help your body breathe


4. Hydrate before, during and after exercise


5. Try more heat-friendly forms of exercise


6. Choose early mornings, evenings or shady routes


7. Know the difference between dry and humid heat and

take that extra water vapor into account


8. Ease up in the heat and acknowledge your limits


9. Know the warning signs of heatstroke and heat exhaustion, and what to do


10. Most important: Listen to your body


Follow the link below to read their full article:


https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2021/07/19/1016989389/how-to-heat-proof-your-summer-workout


Woman eating healthy meal
By Key to Life Health and Fitness October 17, 2025
Learn when to eat for energy, recovery, and results. Nutrient timing tips for optimal performance
Woman in side-plank pilates pose
By Key to Life Health and Fitness October 10, 2025
Discover how Pilates improves posture, core strength, and alignment. Join expert-led classes in Lower Plenty for lasting results.
Michelle Cummaudo - Outdoor group fitness classes
By Key to Life Health and Fitness September 30, 2025
Congratulations to Michelle Cummaudo our October Member of the Month. ​Michelle has been a member of Key to Life for over 9 incredible years. This is an outstanding achievement and shows her dedication to leading a fit and healthy life as a busy mum.
Protein Breakfast Bars with Dark Chocolate and Walnuts ready to eat
By Key to Life Health and Fitness September 29, 2025
Enjoy this healthy and easy to make recipe for Protein Breakfast Bars with Dark Chocolate and Walnuts
Two women holding a plank position on the beach at sunrise
By Key to Life Health and Fitness September 29, 2025
Discover how morning workouts boost energy, mood, and focus with Key to Life Health and Fitness
man in pilates pose
By Key to Life Health and Fitness September 22, 2025
Discover how Pilates supports injury recovery, core strength & flexibility at Key to Life Health and Fitness.
More Posts