There’s something about summer that makes us want to get moving.
Perhaps it’s the longer days, the warmer weather or the inspiration that comes from watching world-class sporting events. Recent weeks have seen Wimbledon capture our attention once again. The World Cup has reminded us not only of the excitement of sport but also of the kindness, sportsmanship, and sense of community it can create.
Whether it’s encouraged you to dust off a tennis racket, kick a football around with family. Heading out for longer walks or simply spending more time outdoors, exercising safely in hot weather, is worth considering.
But there’s one important thing to remember…
Your body doesn’t know it’s summer.
No matter what your calendar says. Your muscles, joints and tendons don’t suddenly become stronger, fitter or more flexible just because the weather has improved. You won’t become an overnight Renaldo on the pitch or Arthur Fery on the court. No, as much as you might wish that to be.
The summer activity trap
Many of us spend much of the year sitting at desks, driving, or being less active than we’d like. Then a stretch of warm weather arrives, and we suddenly decide to make the most of it. We play tennis for the first time in months. Spend a whole afternoon gardening, head off on a long countryside walk, cycle further than usual. Or enjoy an energetic game of football with the children or grandchildren.
And while the body is remarkably adaptable, it needs time to adjust to new demands.
Believe it or not, one of the most common reasons people develop aches and pains during the summer isn’t because these activities are harmful. It’s because they’ve done too much, too soon.
Start where you are. Not where you think you are.
Watching elite athletes can be incredibly motivating. But it’s worth remembering they’ve spent years preparing their bodies for the demands of their sport.
The same principle applies to all of us.
Wherever you’re starting from, build activity gradually. Shorter sessions, sensible progression, and allowing time for recovery will do far more for your long-term health than cramming weeks of activity into a single sunny weekend.
What exercising safely in hot weather actually means.
Exercising safely in hot weather places extra stress on the body.
You may notice you tire more quickly, sweat more, need longer recovery periods or find your usual workout feels harder than normal.
Listening to your body is especially important during hot weather. Exercising earlier in the morning or later in the evening, staying well hydrated and adjusting the intensity of your activity can all help you continue moving safely.
(We’ve shared plenty of advice on exercising safely in the heat, warming up properly and staying hydrated, so be sure to explore our related articles for more practical tips.)
Movement is about more than fitness
One of the loveliest things we’ve seen in recent weeks is how sport brings people together.
Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines, joining friends for a game, exploring on holiday or enjoying a walk with family, movement isn’t just about fitness. It’s about confidence, connection, wellbeing and making memories.
You don’t need to be an elite athlete to enjoy those benefits.
Listen to what your body is telling you
At Sarum Physio, we often meet people who were inspired to become more active, which is fantastic, but whose bodies simply weren’t ready for the sudden increase in activity.
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, swelling or stiffness that doesn’t settle. Don’t ignore it. Book an appointment with our fabulous physios today.
Summer is a wonderful time to be active. Just remember: your body doesn’t automatically become “summer fit” because the season changes. Give it time to adapt, build activity gradually, and you’ll be far more likely to enjoy everything this summer has to offer.
