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Wellness tips by Betsy Adams, Director of the Wellness Center, Whitfield Regional Hospital

Summer Exercise Tips for the Family 

Temperatures are rising, school is out, Summer is here. Here are a few simple tips for keeping your family safe when exercising this summer outdoors.

Keep everyone hydrated. Drink plenty of water, before, during and after physical activity. For added flavor with very few added calories, add slices of your favorite fruit, such as berries, melon, oranges, or even cucumber or mint to a pitcher of water and refrigerate a couple of hours. Popsicles are great hydrators for kids and adults alike. Some are even made with pure fruit. Eat fruits such as watermelon, oranges, and pineapple which contain a lot of water.  Remember to keep cut fruits cool to keep them fresh.

Pack hand sanitizing wipes for cleaning hands well before handling any food.

Don’t forget to protect yourself and your family from the sun. Always use water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and reapply every two hours. Wear wide-brimmed hats.

Avoid intense activities outside during the hottest part of the day (noon to 3 p.m.). Think early morning for the coolest part of the day.

Wear lightweight, light colored clothing. Always wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and don’t forget the kiddo’s sunglasses, too.

Keep insect replant with you just in case and make sure you have a deet-free kid-safe one for the kids.

When the heat gets unbearable outside, you should head indoors for exercise or try swimming or water exercise.

With a little preparation and planning, your family can still get in physical activity and stay safe when it’s hot outside.