Take It Outside
(*Or Even Just The UK)
Not all outdoor ‘workouts’ need to mimic the stuff you do on the weights floor. If you’re bored of dragging your dumbbells to the park, break a sweat in one of these alternative UK training spots
HANDLE THE HEAT
We’ve had some super hot summers recently – even if it doesn’t always feel that way. Keep your cool when the mercury climbs with these top tips
‘Hydrate above and beyond what you expect you’ll need,’ says medical doctor and fitness instructor Emil Hodzovic – and keep on chugging even after you’ve showered. Sweat needs to be replaced, and you’ll lose litres after an hour training in the heat. Mix up an electrolyte drink if it’s been a heavy session. ‘It won’t improve your performance, but it may aid recovery.’
Don’t try anything new during a heatwave, suggests Joseph Lightfoot, founder of Results Inc. When trialling new modes of training, your body can put out warning signs you don’t recognise. ‘If you experience light-headedness, hot or red skin, blurry vision, extreme fatigue or an excessive heart rate, then rest in the shade and rehydrate,’ says Dr Hodzovic.
Ditch the cotton tee and opt for kit that’s breathable, lightweight, quick-drying and sweat-wicking, so you can focus on the task at hand without risking chafe and heat rash.
If You Like… Surfing
The Hebridean island of Tiree is only 30 square miles in surface area, but it compensates with beaches facing all directions, with year-round, consistent waves crashing in off the North Atlantic. Rather optimistically, it must be said, the locals have branded it ‘the Hawaii of the north’. Sea breezes blow away the notorious midges in summer. The dinky airport offers flights from the mainland. wildaboutargyll.co.uk
If You Like… Mountain Biking
This mountain bike centre, near Merthyr Tydfil in South Wales, is one of Britain’s best, with over 40 downhill trails, ranging from smooth, flowing blues for beginners all the way up to scary gap jumps for experts. It’s also, the owners claim, home to the UK’s longest green downhill trail – known as Kermit – which descends for over three miles. Lifts to the 491m summit are courtesy of minibuses, with bike trailers following behind. bikeparkwales.com
If You Like… Scrambling
Depending on the weather, it can take up to two days to negotiate the Isle of Skye’s spiky, craggy, sometimes treacherous and stunningly beautiful mountain range, the Cuillin Ridge. You’ll need a guide, a head for heights and experience with ropes to scramble up and down its grade-3 crenellated crest. The more adventurous might take a bivouac and spend the n
