The heat is rising, and so should your awareness. At WeWard, we're always the first to encourage you to get moving every day. But when temperatures reach extremes, performance has to take a back seat. Your health is, and always will be, our top priority.

In partnership with the Government, we've put together the right habits to help you stay active without putting yourself at risk. Here's how to practice "smart walking" during this heat wave.

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1. Adjust Your Walking Routine

The golden rule in extreme heat: moderation.

• Ease up on effort: stick to gentle, low-intensity activities.
• Avoid peak hours: skip any physical exertion (brisk walking, sports, gardening, or DIY) between 11 AM and 9 PM.
• Reschedule your outings: if you need to go out, try to plan your trips during the coolest parts of the day, ideally very early in the morning or late in the evening.
• Shade first: if going outside is unavoidable, stay in the shade at all times.

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2. Tips for Staying Cool

If you need to be outside or you're in a space without air conditioning, here are a few simple techniques to help regulate your body temperature:

• The cooling trick: wet your clothes (t-shirt, cap) before putting them on. Let them dry on your skin and repeat as soon as they dry out.
• Keep misting: don't hesitate to run a damp cloth over your skin or use a spray bottle filled with cool water.

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3. Essential Habits to Build

During a heat wave, protect yourself by following these key recommendations:

• Stay hydrated: drink water regularly. Don't wait until you're thirsty.
• Keep your home cool: close shutters and windows during the day to trap cooler air, and only ventilate at night.
• Eat light: opt for fresh, balanced meals in reasonable portions. Avoid alcohol entirely, as it accelerates dehydration.
• Look out for others: check in on your loved ones, especially those who are elderly, vulnerable, or living alone.

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One Simple Rule: Listen to Your Body

If you feel unusually fatigued or start to feel unwell, stop all activity immediately. If you feel faint, don't wait. Call emergency services right away.

Walking smart means knowing how to listen to yourself and adapt to the conditions around you. Take care and stay cool!

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