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Fitness tips for summer start with the very fact that you’ll be outside more with less clothing on. This requires some different approaches to exercise than in winter. Let’s look at the top ten fitness tips for summer workouts:

1. Sun, sun, sun….here it comes. With less clothes on, more skin is exposed to the sun. Protection from the sun is more than just a great SPF. In addition to your sunscreen, try SPF workout clothes. These are hot items this year with protection built right into the fabric. And don’t forget your hat.

2. Time of day. Early morning and evening workouts are recommended to avoid the heat and sun altogether. Besides, working out first thing out of bed gets your workout done for the day.

3. Hydrate. You’ll need more water to combat the increased temperatures. Not sure how much you need? Remember this easy hint: drink enough water to make your urine clear.

4. Enjoy the outdoors. Out door activities don’t have to be running and biking. Gardening, swimming, jumping rope, running through the sprinkler with your kids. These are all great ways to burn calories and have fun.

5. Enjoy the indoors. There will be times when the heat index is just to high to safely workout outside. Hit the gym or Pilates studio for a cool indoor workout, or pop in a resistive workout DVD.

6. Prep. Lot’s of people who have been idle or sedentary during the long winter months suddenly get out and start exercising as soon as the weather allows. Prepare for summer by being a winter exerciser too! This will ward off any injuries, aches and pains and keep you fit and trim all year round. One way to prep is with a calf muscle stretch tool such as the Pro Stretch.

7. Try something new. This is a great tip for any time of year, but especially when the weather is warm. It could be aquatic aerobics or plyometrics. Maybe some new Pilates basic moves or a hike up a mountain. Take advantage of spring renewal to renew your dedication to staying fit.

8. Join an exercise group. Every form of exercise has a group attached to it. Running or hiking groups or a group Pilates mat class. If the group dynamic is what will encourage your workouts, do your research and join a group.

9. Hit the sand. Running, walking, even Yoga in the beach is more challenging because of the unevenness of the surface. Working out on the beach requires more muscle groups to engage so it can be dynamic and invigorating.

10. Be neighborly. My neighborhood tends to hibernate in the winter. Seeing everyone out and about in the warm weather may encourage walks together or swim parties. Grab a neighbor and go for a long walk. You’ll not only get in shape but you’ll catch up and re-connect.

Fitness tips really don’t change that much season to season. The best fitness tip is to continue to exercise no matter what time of year.