The rising heat on a hot summer's day can sometimes get in the way of fitness activities, but a personal trainer has revealed what you can do to stay faithful to your exercise plan.
Abby McLachlan, a Pilates Instructor & Founder of East of Eden in London, has shared her tips to help you workout during the heatwave.
She recommended low impact workouts and to make sure you have the right gear in order to make the most of your activity in the hot weather.
The fitness guru explained that the choice of workout clothes is important to make sure you don't overheat.
She also stressed the importance of keeping hydrated throughout the training session - and added that hot days give you the perfect excuse to work out in nature, which challenges both the body and the mind.
1) Stick to Low Impact Workouts
Abby added that it is best to exercise early or late in the day, when the temperatures as still cooler, in order to have a satisfying workout.
'Avoid when the sun is at its peak which is between 11am and 3pm,' she said.
The fitness expert said it's better to turn to low impact training routines when the weather gets hot.
'When the weather gets hotter, we can often feel lethargic and sluggish,' Abby explained.
'Switch up your workouts and opt for low intensity training which has many benefits.
The instructor added that workouts such as yoga, pilates or barre routines are good for the hot weather because they give the whole body a workout without putting stress on the joints.
She added that studios are also well-ventilated, which is a welcomed bonus during heatwaves.
'Lower impact workouts that focus on strength don't increase your body temperature as much as a HIIT workout for example, so are a great choice when you're not in the mood for an intense high impact workout during the heat,' Abby added.
3) Get the right gear
Equipment is important when you're about to workout, and the right gear can make a world of difference, especially when the weather is hot.
'Ensure you're wearing light, breathable fabrics that will help your body stay cool,' Abby said. 'Wearing loose fitting, breathable clothing will allow the sweat to escape from your body and help keep your body cool.'
The instructor added that heavy clothes will have the opposite effect and make you feel hotter, as they will raise your body temperature.
4) Stay hydrated
Hydrating is paramount when you workout on a hot day. 'The paler your urine the better as this is a sign that you're well hydrated,' Abby noted.
'You are more likely to be dehydrated when it's hot so ensure you are drinking enough water, this can also help lower your body temperature by drinking up to three litres of water,' she added.
Drinking plenty of fluids is also a great tool to avoid cramping or feeling faint while you work out.
5) Get out in nature
The hot weather is also the perfect occasion to workout outdoors and to reconnect with nature.
'The warmer weather is a great chance to get out in nature and workout in shaded areas and green spaces,' Abby said. 'This is not only beneficial to your physical health, but also your mental health.'
She also added that working out outside was a great excuse to invite friends to work out with you and turn it into a social occasion.
Exercising outside also has the benefit of being free and can challenge your body by working on new terrain as opposed to a gym or studio.
6) Know your limits
One of the most important thing you can do while working out on hot days or during a heatwave is to know your body, Abby said.
'Listen to your body - if you experience a headache, dizziness, confusion, sickness or fatigue, it's best to rest and refuel,' she said. 'Listen to your body and stop your workout if you're not feeling well.
'It's important to be cautious when exercising during a hot day and modify your workout to ensure you stay safe in the heat,' she went on.