The American Heart Association warns that extreme heat can be dangerous or even fatal, especially for people with heart disease.
How to stay active in hot weather
As the temperature rises during the summer months, exercising outdoors can become difficult. Even heat-loving, sun-seeking athletes can become overheated when the sun shines in the heat of the day.
Tips to keep in mind
Staying hydrated benefits your body.
Protect your core from heat, especially when working outdoors in hot weather.
Hot Weather Tips
Stay active this summer with your family
Be a role model for an active lifestyle. Start moving more yourself and find ways to be active as a family.
Physical activity should be fun for children and adolescentsEncourage children to keep trying activities to discover which ones they enjoy and will stick with in the long term.
Reduce or limit sedentary screen timeincluding watching television, playing video games and using a digital device.
Provide children with opportunities to be active. Provide them with active toys and games, such as bikes, skateboards, roller skates, scooters, jump ropes, balls and sports equipment.
Familiarize yourself with community amenities near you, such as swimming pools, recreation centers, bike paths and parks.
Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental health can positively or negatively impact your physical health and risk factors for heart disease and stroke, according to “Psychological Health, Well-Being, and the Mind-Heart-Body Connection,” a scientific statement published in the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation.
Stress can contribute to poor health behaviors linked to increased risk of heart disease and stroke, such as:
- Smoking
- Eat too much
- Lack of physical activity
- Bad eating habits
- To be overweight
- Not taking medication as prescribed
Resources:
More July Calendar Highlights
7/1 – International Joke Day | Tell an old joke (07/24) Can the humor of “dad jokes” be good for your health?
7/2 – Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act – enacted in 1964, it prohibited discrimination in public places, provided for the integration of schools and other public establishments and made employment discrimination illegal.
7/3 – National Bean Day – The benefits of beans and legumes | National Sun Protection Day
7/3-8/11 – Summer dog days – Can your pet help you be healthier?
7/4 – Independence Day
7/5 – National Workaholics Day
7/7 – Father/daughter day out together | World Forgiveness Day | National Rock’n’Roll Day – The American Heart Association wants to teach all Americans how to perform hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Check out our “Don’t Drop the Beat” playlist which is between 100 and 120 beats per minute, the same rate at which you should perform compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Join our Nations of Lifesavers.
7/11 – World Population Day
07/14 – Shark Awareness Day
15/07 – National “Give Something” Day
17/07 – World Emoji Day
07/21 – National Ice Cream Day – Avocado and banana ice cream | Recipes from the American Heart Association – This creamy, all-fruit ice cream is a delicious way to increase both fruit and fiber intake. Easy to prepare the day before to ensure a refreshing treat is ready for kids of all ages. | National Crafts for your Local Shelter Day
23/07 – National Parents Day | March for Men
7/24 – International Self Care Day – Self-Care Is Not Selfish Infographic | Pioneer Day | Tell an Old Joke
07/25 – National Drowning Prevention Day Consider – Join our Nation of Lifesavers and learn CPR. The American Heart Association recommends CPR and chest compressions in cases of drowning
07/26 – National Disability Independence Day commemorating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990 | National Dog Photography Day – Healthy Bond for Life / Pets
28/07 – National Parents Day
7/30 – Share a Hug Day | World Friendship Day
31/07 – National Lawyer Day – Dairy-Free Berry Avocado Smoothie – This dairy-free berry smoothie, made with almond milk, frozen berries, and avocado, is a creamy and delicious treat anytime. This Avocados From Mexico recipe is a Heart-Check certified recipe from the American Heart Association. Avocado Salsa -Instead of the usual guacamole, try this rich dip that combines creamy avocado with tender black beans and crunchy chopped vegetables. We even include homemade tortilla chips!