5 Simple Steps For Exercising Safely Outdoors
There has been a wealth of research over the years proving that being active in the great outdoors is better for our health.
Helping to reduce such things as tension, anger, confusion, stress and anxiety, exercising outdoors has also proven to make those participating in it far more likely to repeat the activity, than if they had taken part in it indoors.
However, for all of the benefits of exercising outdoors, it is important to recognize that are inherent risks with doing so. To help you manage those risks and enjoy your time exercising outside, here are 5 simple tips:
- Be safe in the sun
Wearing UV treated arm sleeves or leg sleeves, particularly if you’re recovering from a sports injury, is a great way of being able to exercise safely in the sun without harmful UV rays putting you at risk of sunburn, and skin cancer. You should of course apply a high factor sunscreen to all other exposed parts of your skin, wear a hat and sunglasses, and avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day.
If you start to feel unbearably hot, dizzy or weak, stop exercising immediately, move into the shade, drink some water, and call for help if needed.
- Buddy up
While exercising outdoors can be made even more fun and engaging when you do it with others, there’s another good reason why you shouldn’t exercise outdoors alone: safety. This is particularly important if you’re exercising in a remote area or somewhere not frequented by people. If you’ve got diabetes and experience a hypoglycaemic episode, for example, it can be extremely helpful and comforting to know that someone will be there to assist you, or in the event of any medical emergency.
- Carry your medication
While this is perhaps most pertinent for those with diabetes and who are taking insulin, if you’re suffering from any kind of illness or injury that may require you to take emergency medication, it’s imperative that you have it with you while exercising outdoors. You may not be able to get to a clinic or hospital easily from where you are, and exercising vigorously may induce a hypoglycaemic episode or any other type of medical emergency.
- Familiarize yourself with the surroundings
Before you even start your warm-up, check the area around you for signs of any potential hazards, such as wild animals or traffic, or even a cliff edge, that could catch you off guard when in the throes of exercising. Assess the ground beneath your feet, too, as uneven ground and anything you might trip over, can present as hazards that could leave you with a serious injury. Where possible, research the area first so that you can be sure it’s safe and suitable for exercising before you begin.
- Keep hydrated
Even if the sun isn’t shining and it doesn’t feel particularly warm, dehydration can creep up on you fast, especially when you’re exerting yourself. Always carry a water bottle with you so that you can take regular sips to stay hydrated and healthy.
You can enhance the benefits of exercising in the great outdoors by wearing a weight bracelet too, which is a safe way to add resistance to your movements while you exercise. Just remember that if it’s a hot day, you may not be able to push yourself in quite the same way as you would if you were exercising in a climate controlled environment.
Follow the simple steps above for a fun-filled and safe, outdoors exercise session.
