We’re officially in the dog days of summer, a time when stepping outside feels like entering a sauna. The scorching heat and high UV rays may be great for a day at the pool, but the summer climate can cause problems for your fitness routine. But you don’t have to let the temperature highs put a freeze on your fitness goals! Indoor workouts offer a great way to stay active and healthy without suffering the summer heat. If you’ve never exercised indoors, don’t sweat it–we’ve got some ideas to help you enjoy your coolest summer workout yet.
The Gains of Indoor Workouts
Being active outdoors is a key part of any healthy lifestyle. But during the summer, exercising outside can be downright dangerous. High heat, humidity, and UV levels can cause health issues like dehydration, heat exhaustion, sunburn and heat stroke. The summer climate is also known to increase the risk of asthma and COPD flares. Working out indoors can help you stay cool and safe as you earn gains and crush your fitness goals.
But indoor workouts offer several benefits beyond just beating the heat. For one, there’s increased control over your environment–you can regulate the temperature, hydration, and even air quality by working out indoors. Plus, indoor workouts remove any weather-related excuses that might be holding you back. No matter how hot, rainy, or stormy it gets, you can always stick to your workout schedule.
Indoor Workouts for Everyone
Here are a few indoor exercise options that are adaptable to various ages and abilities:
- Yoga: Yoga can be modified for all levels of fitness and age groups, from toddlers to seniors. It’s a full-body workout that promotes flexibility, strength, balance, and mindfulness. It also doesn’t require much space — a small quiet corner is all you need.
- Dance Fitness: This is an excellent choice for the entire family. Dance workouts like Zumba or aerobic dance routines are fun, energetic, and great cardiovascular exercises. Plus, they can be a wonderful stress-reliever!
- Bodyweight Exercises: Don’t have workout equipment? No problem! Bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, push-ups, or planks can be performed anywhere. They’re fantastic for building strength and endurance and can be modified to suit any fitness level.
- Stationary Cardio: A stationary bike or treadmill can offer a great cardiovascular workout, mimicking the experience of outdoor cycling or running. For the elderly or those with joint issues, low-impact options like a stationary recumbent bike or elliptical can be beneficial.
- Pilates: It’s an excellent choice for improving flexibility, strength, balance, and body awareness. Plus, it can be adapted to various fitness levels.
To keep things exciting and engaging, try to mix and match these workouts. You can also use online resources or workout apps to help guide your sessions.
Don’t let the summer heat dissuade you from staying active. An indoor workout routine can be just as effective, enjoyable, and beneficial as outdoor workouts. Let’s beat the heat together, one indoor workout at a time!