Running in the Summer: How to Stay Safe

Protect Your Eyes from the Sun

Excessive exposure to the sun can pose serious risks to your eyes, including the development of cataracts and eye cancer. During the summer months, the sun’s rays are particularly strong, and they can reflect off various surfaces such as pavement. If you engage in outdoor activities, it is essential to wear eye protection that offers 99% UVA and UVB protection. Consider investing in sunglasses that provide adequate shielding. Additionally, wearing a visor or cap while running outdoors can provide additional shade for your eyes and face, further minimizing the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.


Protect Your Skin While Running

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the majority of skin cancers are a result of exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Therefore, it is crucial for runners to take steps to shield their skin from the sun. Even short runs can put you at risk of sunburns, especially when the UV index is high. To protect your skin while running, it is recommended to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Make sure to apply the sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before heading outdoors and reapply it every two hours to ensure maximum protection.

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