Written by guest author Talar Demirdjian

A beautiful sunny day in Lebanon feels like the ultimate motivation to go outside and play, but exercise combined with the summer heat can be a dangerous combination. 

So, here are a couple of things to think about while working out in the summer:

1- The Time of day is important: Try avoiding exercising outdoors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and take some cover in the shade. Instead, rise early to catch the cool of the morning, or go out at sunset or later. Generally, the early morning is the best time to workout, especially if it's going to be a scorcher that day.

Alternatively, you can just jump in a pool as we have plenty of great pool resorts in Lebanon, or add an aqua-aerobics class in your fitness routine. And carry a fan/spray bottle for skin surface cooling

2- Wear loose, light-colored. Lighter colored clothing will help reflect heat, and cotton material will help your sweat evaporate. You may also want to try specially designed, "hi-tech" running shirts and shorts. They are often made from material meant to keep you cool, which is essential in the heat in Lebanon.

3- Sunscreen is essential. Yes, I understand we’re Lebanese and we don’t burn, but we can get skin cancer, so use SPF 45 just to be safe. It's important to protect your skin. You can get burned without realizing it and suffer sun damage to your skin, even on cloudy days.

4- Stay hydrated. Before you go out, drink a glass or two of water. Carry a bottle of water with you everywhere you go. Take a drink every 15 minutes, even when you're not thirsty. When you're done with your workout, have a few more glasses of water. This should already be part of your fitness plan. It’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day and not just before a workout.