Five tips for staying fit this summer
10 June 2026 | Comment(s) |
Christelle Travelletti
Summer is all about sunshine, holidays and outdoor activities. But the warmer months can also bring health risks: dehydration, sunburn, heatstroke and even food poisoning.
The good news is that with a few simple steps, you can make the most of summer whilst looking after your health.
Here are five essential tips to stay fit throughout the summer season.
1. Stay hydrated
In the heat, the body loses more water, particularly through sweating. Inadequate hydration can quickly lead to fatigue, headaches or dizziness.
Healthy habits:
- Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty
- Avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks, which can lead to dehydration
- Think about water-rich foods such as melon, cucumber or watermelon
2. Protect yourself from the sun
The sun is beneficial, but excessive exposure can cause sunburn, premature skin ageing and increase the risk of skin diseases.
Take the right precautions:
- Apply a suitable sunscreen (SPF 50) and reapply regularly
- Avoid exposure to the sun between 11am and 4pm
- Wear a hat, sunglasses and light clothing
Remember: even in the shade or on cloudy days, UV rays are still present.
3. Remain active but adjust your efforts
Summer is a great time to get more active: walking, cycling, swimming… Physical activity is good for your body and your mood, provided you adapt it to the heat.
A few recommendations:
- Choose the coolest times of day (early morning or late afternoon) for your activities
- Reduce the intensity of your exercise during periods of high heat
- Remember to stay well hydrated before, during and after your activity
4. Watch what you eat
Heat encourages the growth of bacteria and increases the risk of food poisoning, particularly during picnics or barbecues.
To avoid any problems:
- Maintain the cold chain for perishable foods (meat, dairy products)
- Wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly
- Avoid leaving food out in the sun for too long
- Opt for light, balanced meals
A healthy diet also helps to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.
5. Adopt the right habits in hot weather
Heatwaves can put a strain on the body, particularly for vulnerable people.
A few simple steps to take:
- Air your home early in the morning or late in the evening to keep it cool
- Close the shutters or curtains during the day
- Take lukewarm showers to lower your body temperature
- Sleep in a well-ventilated room
Watch out for signs of heatstroke (severe fatigue, dizziness, nausea) and act quickly.
In other words…
Looking after your health in summer is based on a few simple principles: staying well-hydrated, protecting yourself from the sun, staying active in a suitable way, eating healthily and adopting the right habits in hot weather.
By making these habits part of your daily routine, you’ll give yourself the best chance of enjoying the summer to the full — safely!
Look after yourself… and have a great summer!
