Summer is officially upon us, giving everyone the opportunity to take their fitness activities outdoors!

Follow these summer safety tips from Gary Fite, PT, Director of Rehab Services and Kristen Gunn, DPT, ATC from our PT Department to make your summer safer and more enjoyable:

1. Drink, drink, drink!  Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
2. Protect your skin with an appropriate sun block for your skin type as well as bug repellant if the area has potential for ticks, chiggers, fleas, etc.
3. Pick a safe workout area or route.  Be aware of potential hazards, such as animals, weeds, bugs, pot holes, heavy traffic, etc.
4. Move activities to mornings or evenings when it tends to be a little cooler outside – try to avoid the hottest time of day.
5. If walking, running, or cycling, start on an uphill path so your return route is less stressful.
6. Drink some more water!
7. Use proper footwear.  If diabetic or otherwise potentially compromised, check for blisters or any skin irritation.
8. Take advantage of city parks that have exercise equipment.
9. Have a workout partner or ensure someone knows where you are going and expected return times.
10. Take your phone with you when you leave the house, especially if you are going for a walk/run. Check that it is fully charged.
11. Set a yard workout area in the shade.
12. Use a lawn sprinkler as a cool down area.
13. Workout at the pool – Brookfield Aquatic Center is now offering classes for water aerobics!
14. Once back indoors, do a good skin and bug check.
15. Wear helmets while biking, roller blading, and skateboarding.
16. Ensure that all children wear life jackets when boating and that there are enough life jackets on board for everyone in case of an emergency.
17. Never leave a child alone in a pool or near other bodies of water.
18. Although the heat may ‘take it out of you,’ ensure you are still getting proper nutrition this summer – even if it is in small amounts.