Summer is a great time to dedicate to fitness goals. It’s the best time to cross train and commit to developing skills and techniques for your upcoming sports season. Summer workouts often mean exercising outdoors in the heat and sun. For this reason, it’s very important to make sure you have the right gear for summer workouts.
This includes sunscreen, proper hydration, and moisture-wicking workout gear. While workout products can help increase motivation, there are some products that are unnecessary.
This is your summer workout guide to all the best gear you need—and then gear you don’t.
Sunglasses are essential for protecting the eyes from UV rays. But most fashion sunglasses will slide right off when running. But not the Nathan Sports Polarized Running Sunglasses. These are lightweight, yet have a grip on both the nose and temple so these aren’t moving when running. They are impact-resistant in case they are dropped. These sunglasses can withstand hot temperatures and have 100% UV protection. The polarized lines reduce glare but the runner can still see crystal clear.
Workout Clothes
Athletes need lightweight and breathable workout gear that wicks away sweat For female athletes, check out the Lululemon’s Sculpt Cropped Tank Top. It is made of moisture-wicking fabric and mesh fabric that provides lots of ventilation. It has a great stretch, and the fit is perfect since it’s loose around the body and is cropped at the length of summer workouts.
For males, the Cool Trail Tank Top from Patagonia is among the best tank tops. This tank top is so comfortable on, with its super soft fabric. There is lots of stretch, even though it’s a slim fit and runs true to size. It’s sweat-wicking and is great for running and for everyday wear.
Workout shorts are also a must for summer. Luluemon Hotty Hot shorts are great options with their wide-leg cut for breathability. The fabric is moisture-wicking, and the fit is great because it won’t ride up during workouts.
Sunscreen
SolRX Sport SunscreenSPF 50 Sunscreen is a must for outdoor summer workouts. Highly recommended by athletes, this a great running product for runners looking to protect their skin for up to eight hours. This sunscreen doesn’t clog pores and won’t run into the eyes.
Hydration Bottles
Athletes need to make sure they are properly hydrated during summer workouts. Bring along a water bottle to the field, court, or gym to make sure to drink enough water.
Nathan SpeedDraw Plus water bottle is among the most popular hand-held options. It has an adjustable hand strap with a thumbhole, so it’s comfortable to hold grip-free during runs. It holds 18 oz of water, keeping it cool. It also has a zippered pocket so athletes can carry their phones, keys, and even sports gels or electrolyte packets.
Workout Products Not To Buy
Waist trainers
Athletes do not need to waste their money on was it trainers—especially for summer workouts. These increase sweat production and can increase the risk of losing electrolytes if worn for an outdoor summer workout. Stick to breathable clothing. Chances are the hot temperatures and workout will have you working up a sweat without needing a waist trainer.
Expensive Workout Clothes
Yes, some popular fitness apparel brands can cost a pretty penny. When looking at the price for the durability, sometimes it is worth it. But there are plenty of affordable workout clothes sold in stores and online. There is no need to have a brand name. Look instead for features like moisture-wicking fabric and ventilation.
Even more, there is no need to purchase clothing with UV protection. Just use a high-quality sunscreen to protect the skin.
Cooling Towels
Cooling towels feel great during a summer workout, but the relief is only temporary. Buying this workout product isn’t necessary. Instead, pack a small towel to wipe away sweat and athletes can even directly pour some water onto themselves to cool down.
Pre-Workout Supplements
There is no need to spend money on pre-workout powders, drinks, and the like. It’s better to fuel your body with a healthy snack and consume a balanced diet.
Avoid unnecessary products to save money. However, focus on the gear needed to enhance your fitness routine, making it easier to stay active and healthy during the summer months.
Image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay
Other Gear
There is no need for the latest smartphone for workout apps, or fancy fitness trackers. These are nice to have and are helpful, but not a necessity. Other workout gear not to buy includes free weights and other gym equipment. Take your workout outdoors!