Keeping Seasonal Allergies at Bay During Outdoor Workout Sessions
Andrew Lombara AndrewLombara.com
As the weather in the northern hemisphere warms up, many of us are looking forward to spending more time outdoors. From working out to working in the garden, spring affords us all sorts of opportunities to engage in the world.
But for those unfortunate enough to have allergies, it can also mean a host of symptoms that make life miserable. However, there are ways you can avoid the brunt of allergies when you want to get your workout on outside.
Take Preventative Medications
Inhalers users may be able to prevent an asthma attack when working out by using an inhaler 10 minutes beforehand. Other allergy medications may have a similar protective effect when taken before a workout.
Avoid Lawnmowers
If you’re taking a brisk walk or run as part of your workout, change the route if you see or hear any lawnmowers, which kick up pollen, dirt, and other debris.
Adjust Your Workout
Aerobic exercises such as running, swimming, or biking might set off an allergy attack because they cause you to breathe heavier. However, you may be able to avoid setting off allergies if you opt for a less strenuous yoga workout instead.
Consider Time of Day
Allergies and working out may require a bit of flexibility. Although not everyone can upend their schedule, it’s worth saving your workout until during or after the rain when pollen won’t be in the air.
Consider a lunchtime or late-night workout to take advantage of the weather. Furthermore, morning dew has a similar effect on pollen so that you might swap exercise time from after to before work.
Clean Your Exercise Clothes If there’s a chance that your workout gear might pick up pollen, consider throwing it in the wash more frequently than you would normally.
The pollen that sticks to clothes can aggravate allergies during a workout, even if a low-pollen day.
Check The Pollen Count Finally, there may be days when you simply cannot spend time outside, let alone workout in the outdoors. Check the pollen count ahead of time, if that’s what sets off your allergies. Take this day off or stick to indoor activities instead. If you want to work out on vacation, keep in mind that pollen levels vary geographically, too.