Last time we talked about summer exercise benefits and we touched on this but I want to focus this morning on tips for exercising safely in the summer especially when the heat is extremely challenging.

Stay Hydrated:

Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise. Consider drinks with electrolytes if you're exercising for prolonged periods. Better yet, include plenty of electrolyte containing foods such as apples oranges et cetera in your diet.

Wear Appropriate Clothing:

Light, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics help us stay more comfortable throughout the day. Also, not a bad idea to keep an extra change in the car or even office to make daytime exercise easier and more comfortable. A wide brim hat and wrap around Polaroid sunglasses can not only protect our eyes better against sun exposure but add visual depth and colors especially when we are on or near water.

Sunscreen:

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. We urge you to consider and use regularly non-nano mineral based natural sunscreen to avoid the potential toxicity of sunscreens. Reapply every two hours, or more often if sweating heavily or swimming.

Being a patient in my direct primary care (DPC) practice is a markedly different experience compared to traditional healthcare settings. In my practice, patients enjoy personalized care. In My practice, you are always seen by myself, a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician, not a nurse practitioner or PA. I have far fewer patients than the typical corporate based practice, allowing me to spend more time with each of my patients. This means appointments are longer, allowing for in-depth discussions about your health concerns.

This allows me to offer greater access to care. This includes same-day or next business day appointments, as well as the ability to reach me via phone, text, or email for urgent concerns. I offer virtual visits, allowing you to consult with me remotely. We operate on a membership model. This simplifies the administrative process and eliminates the need to navigate extensive paperwork or copayments for basic care. My patients know exactly how much they're paying each month for membership, and what optional services are available, there are no surprises when it comes to additional costs for visits or procedures within the practice.

As a Lifestyle Medicine Physician, I prioritize preventive care and wellness. With more time to spend with me, I emphasize lifestyle changes, health education, and proactive screenings to prevent health issues before they arise... To learn more and to contact us go to https://www.drjohnhayesjr.com/what-is-it-like-to-be-a-patient-in-my-direct-primary-care-practice

We’ve all faced times when illness or injury makes regular exercise difficult. The real challenge comes when we struggle to get back on track, letting healthy habits slip for weeks or even months. This can lead to weight gain, increased blood sugar levels, and other health concerns—creating a cycle that’s tough to break.

But just like Spring brings renewal, so can our approach to movement and self-care. Even during recovery, small daily actions can make a big difference. Hospitals emphasize early physical therapy for a reason—gentle movement, rehab, and gradual increases in activity help restore strength and prevent setbacks.

Spring is a time of growth and fresh starts, and the same applies to our bodies. Even if a full workout isn’t possible, simple activities like stretching, short assisted walks, or light resistance exercises can gradually rebuild strength. These small movements, repeated throughout the day, add up over time.

Just as we declutter our homes in Spring, we can tidy up our nutrition too. Tracking carbohydrates and calories, with guidance from professionals, helps maintain energy levels and supports recovery. When movement is limited, mindful eating becomes even more crucial... Read much more and contact us at https://www.drjohnhayesjr.com/but-doctor-i-can-t-exercise