Gear to keep you going in your summer workout
There are so many barriers to working out: your busy schedule, lack of sleep, unforeseen injuries. When the weather gets warm, though, you have one less excuse for skipping your daily sweat session. You don’t even need a gym membership to get a good workout during the balmy summer months—just the proper gear. Here are five must-haves for your summer exercise regimen.
- Sweat-wicking everything. Before you so much as step foot outside, make sure you’re covered from head to toe in breathable, sweat-wicking clothing. This is a good idea regardless of what time of year you’re working out, but it becomes imperative in the sweltering summer months. Trusted athletic companies like Nike churn out pieces in a huge variety of different cuts and styles, and they all wick sweat away from your body to prevent chafing.
- Sunscreen that stays put. Everyone likes to achieve a subtle glow in the summer months, while avoiding that alarming lobster red. Find a natural sunscreen that can withstand a sweaty run or fresh-air yoga session. The Environmental Working Group warns against sprayable sunscreens, which rarely provide even coverage, despite their convenience. It also suggests you avoid certain ingredients, but zinc oxide is a safe option. It protects your skin safely from both UVB and UVA rays. Try something like Aubrey Organics’ Natural Sun, a water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 45.
- A sturdy water bottle. Hydration is important whenever you exercise, but when the summer heat causes even more sweating, you need to be extra careful about dehydration. That means you should never work out without your water bottle. If you’ll be exercising outside, you need something sturdy. Self magazine has a round-up of water bottles that can withstand both the heat and wear-and-tear. To take a sip without slowing down, try a glass Lifefactory bottle with a pop-up straw and a grippy silicone sleeve (which keeps it from shattering).
- A lightweight hat. Sunscreen will help protect your precious skin from the sun’s rays, but if you want to enhance its effect, add a hat, too. Opt for a sports-specific baseball cap that wicks sweat while it keeps the sun off your face, and make sure it’s light and breathable enough to let heat escape while you hit the pavement. Again, Nike has some solid options when it comes to sports-centric hats.
- Sporty sunglasses. If you just can’t get into a good hat, there’s another option to prevent squinting: athletic sunglasses. Unlike the stylish aviators or Ray Bans you throw on every day, sporty sunglasses are curved specifically to stay put on your noggin come rain, snow, or sweat (mostly that last one!). You can grab a cheapie pair at Target, or check out more professional pairs at Dick’s Sporting Goods or online at com. You might be better off going to the store for sunglasses, however, since you can’t really assess comfort without actually trying them on.
What To Wear For Summer Outdoor Workouts [Get Healthy U]
The 4 Best Water Bottles for Sweaty Summer Workouts [Self]
The Best Sunscreens for Athletes and Outdoor Adventures [The Active Times]