exercising in hot weather puts an added strain on the body

Team GB Olympian Eilish McColgan shares tips on training in the heat

Ed Barker
Authored by Ed Barker
Posted: Friday, June 9, 2023 - 17:06

With the weather heating up, many Brits will be making the most of the soaring temperatures and enjoying summer workout routines in the great outdoors.

Undoubtedly, exercising in hot weather puts an added strain on the body, and without the right preparation, it can increase health risks e.g. dehydration or sun stroke.

To tie in with Global Running Day (June 7th), Team GB Olympian Eilish McColgan has teamed up with the UK’s number one aluminium free deodorant Bionsen, to share her top tips for training safely this summer.

Eilish McColgan, Team GB Olympian and Bionsen brand ambassador, said: “We all want to get out in the sunshine, and exercising in the sun is a great way to boost serotonin, but you need to ensure you’re taking the proper precautions.  

“As a professional athlete, I’ve competed across the world and seen first-hand the impact high temperatures can have on the body. Dehydration, heat exhaustion and sunstroke are all life-threatening conditions which cannot be underestimated, even in the UK.

“For anyone exercising this summer, the first thing to do is avoid the hottest time of the day – usually between 11am- 3pm. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan your workout for the early morning or late in the day to avoid peak temperatures.

“Consider what you’re wearing. While you might look good in your favourite black athleisurewear, black absorbs heat, trapping it in your clothing. Instead, opt for light breathable clothing in white or other pale colours. Lightweight fabrics allow your skin to breathe, helping you to stay cool – and don’t forget the sun cream!

“Stay hydrated! It might seem obvious, but during your workout don’t wait till you’re thirsty, take a water bottle with you and ensure you’re drinking every 10 to 15 minutes.

"Water is a great choice but if you find yourself heavily sweating or exercising for an extended period of time, sports drinks can help refuel and rehydrate the body efficiently.

“Finally, sweat! Sweating is an essential part of staying cool in the sun. As the water in your sweat evaporates from your body, it cools the surface of your skin, helping to regulate your body temperature.

“This is why I’d always recommend using a deodorant to work out in the heat. Deodorants like Bionsen’s Mineral Active Aerosol Deodorant target the bacteria in your underarms to prevent body odour, allowing you to sweat freely, stay cool and smell fresh.

“Sweat is a natural response to hot conditions, so if you’re planning on working out this summer, stay hydrated, dress smart and let yourself sweat!”

Bionsen’s full range of deodorants are not only aluminium free, but also don’t contain any parabens, silicones or colourants. The products are cruelty-free, dermatologically tested and are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for all skin types.

Bionsen’s full deodorant range is available from £2.69 at a variety of retailers including Boots, Amazon and Bionsen’s website: https://bionsen.uk/

EILISH MCCOLGAN’S TOP FIVE WAYS TO BEAT THE HEAT

  1. Stay hydrated
  2. Sweat freely
  3. Plan your workout
  4. Wear lightweight and pale clothing
  5. Replenish your electrolytes
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