Why is it easier to lose weight during the dog days of summer?
1. Fat burns faster
The dog days of summer are the period when the body burns fat at the fastest rate. The same exercise will burn fat three times faster than in other periods.
2. Increased metabolism
In the high temperatures of summer, the body accelerates our metabolism. For every 1-degree increase in temperature, the body’s metabolism increases by 12%.
3. Appetite reduction leads to lower intake
The hot weather during the dog days of summer often results in reduced appetite for many people. With decreased food intake and increased calorie expenditure, a calorie deficit is created, which aids in weight loss.
There’s a saying “Train in the coldest days of winter, train in the dog days of summer,” but when exercising during the dog days of summer, it’s really important to “take it easy”. There are many accidents from running in the summer, so scientific exercise is especially crucial:
1. Wear comfortable and breathable clothing
In the high temperatures of summer, wear breathable, light-colored clothing for exercise. After exercising, change out of sweat-soaked clothes promptly to avoid being in a damp environment, which can lead to acne.
2. Hydrate promptly
The body loses water quickly in the summer, so it’s advisable to hydrate before exercising. Typically, 500ml of water should be consumed half an hour before exercise, or drink water with electrolytes to replenish salt levels in the body. Drinking plenty of water not only replenishes fluids to promote metabolism but also reduces appetite.
3. Use air conditioning sparingly
Air conditioning keeps us in a constant temperature environment, impeding the body’s ability to regulate heat and making it easier to gain weight.
4. Get enough rest
Sleep not only serves as rest but also plays a role in regulating hormones. Hormonal imbalances can lead to rapid weight gain. Nighttime is also the time when major organs detoxify, so even while sleeping, the body is burning fat faster.
5. Maintain a balanced diet
Controlling what you eat is the first step in losing weight. For those trying to lose weight, avoid high-fat, high-calorie foods and opt for lighter, low-calorie options like red beans, coix seed, winter melon, seaweed, broccoli, tomatoes, etc. A schedule for losing weight during the dog days of summer:
7 am: Wake up, drink a cup of warm water, do simple stretching
8 am: Have breakfast
9 am: Sunbathe for 20 minutes to release body moisture
1 pm: Rest for half an hour after lunch
6 pm: Have dinner, keep it light
9 pm: Soak your feet to help fall asleep quickly
10 pm: Do some stretching exercises, then sleep
CCTV recommendation: Suitable exercise activities for the dog days of summer
Swimming
Swimming has various benefits, such as weight loss, lowering cholesterol, and enhancing cardiovascular function, making it one of the preferred exercise choices during the hot dog days of summer. However, not everyone is suitable for swimming; patients with heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, etc., should exercise under professional guidance. Also, selecting a swimming location is essential – do not swim in the wild and prioritize safety.
Brisk walking
Brisk walking is suitable for all seasons, not just the “dog days.” Among various outdoor activities, brisk walking is most suitable during the dog days of summer. With a pace between running and walking, brisk walking is a low-intensity exercise that can be adjusted based on individual conditions. It has low technical requirements, no equipment restrictions, and is effective for strengthening leg muscles and improving cardiovascular function, making it ideal for middle-aged and elderly individuals. When brisk walking during the dog days of summer, it’s best to do so in the early morning or evening to avoid the scorching sun.
Yoga
Practicing yoga in the dog days of summer not only trains the body but also the mind, making it an excellent exercise for mental well-being. Hot summer weather can induce fatigue, affecting various functions when the brain is tired. The stretching, twisting, and deep relaxation of various yoga poses can massage the body’s organs, helping maintain a balanced state. Moreover, practicing yoga during the dog days of summer yields better results compared to winter, as the body’s flexibility is higher in summer, reducing the risk of muscle strains or injuries.
Badminton, Table Tennis
Badminton and table tennis are full-body exercises that enhance the coordination of upper and lower limbs and increase the strength of arm, leg, and waist muscles. They accelerate overall blood circulation, enhance cardiovascular and respiratory system functions.
