Exercising Outside? Protect Yourself Against the Sun
If you jog or exercise outdoors you will enjoy it so much more in the summer. None of that battling against the wind, rain and freezing temperatures (unless you live in the UK – Beeble). But remember to protect yourself properly against the damaging effects of the sun. The sun rays can cause skin cancer and have an ageing effect on the skin.
Skin Cancer
Here in the UK someone dies from skin cancer every four hours according to the British Association of Dermatologists and some newspapers have reported that this type of cancer is rising faster than prostate and breast cancers.
Here are some points to remember before you go training in the sun:
- Wear a hat, sunglasses and cover up your body as much as possible – loose cool trousers rather than shorts
- Remember that the sun can cause damage even on cloudy days
- Use factor 30 sunscreen on all exposed parts of your body and re-apply every few hours
- Avoid going in the sun between 11 am and 3 pm
- Avoid getting burnt
- Be particularly careful with young children and those with very fair skin
- The older the sunscreen is the less effective it is, always try to buy a new bottle
Dangers of Sunbeds
Never use a sunbed as some have harmful ultraviolet rays that are 10 to 15 times more intense than the midday sun. If you want a good tan the safest way is to get it out of a bottle.
Check your skin
Keep a careful watch on your skin and if you notice any change in the shape of existing moles or new moles then check with your doctor.
Enjoy the sun, but be careful!
Further information:
British Association of Dermatologists
