Seasonal allergies getting you down? Here’s how to exercise outdoors this summer

Posted: 18th May 2022 | Posted by Costa

Seasonal allergies getting you down? Here’s how to exercise outdoors this summer

It’s nearly summer. Which can only mean one thing: we’re going to get some sun. Well, hopefully. When the sun does eventually come out, it’s a great opportunity to spend more time outdoors, work on our tan, and – for some – get some exercise. Why waste the money on a gym membership when the whole world can be your gym?

If you have seasonal allergies, like hay fever, the gym probably sounds like the better option. Because with summer comes a lot of pollen. And with pollen comes a lot of scratchy throats, blocked noses, and itchy eyes. But if you’re determined to work on that summer body by getting some much-needed outdoor exercise in, is there a way to keep those allergies at bay?

What time of day to exercise

One way to avoid as much of the pollen as possible is to change when you exercise. This is likely going to be either early in the morning or later in the evening. Though this will depend on the type of pollen you’re allergic to.

For example, grass releases its pollen early in the morning, so it won’t be as prominent in the air until later on. So if you get out at the same time – around 7 a.m. – you can potentially avoid the worst of it. The same goes for later on once the pollen has settled – around 7 p.m.

What weather to look out for

The perfect part of exercising outdoors in summer is that you get to bask in the warmth of the sun. But this might be bad for your allergies. When the weather is nicer, plants are more likely to open up and release their pollen, meaning there’s more of it in the air. And if there’s a breeze, this moves the pollen around, meaning you’re more likely to run into it.

Ideally, you’d want to go for a jog when it’s raining. The rain will typically suppress the pollen so it doesn’t get to travel as far. But going outside in that kind of weather isn’t something people tend to like. Instead, go for your run after the rain has stopped. This way, the pollen is still pushed down and you don’t have to get wet.

The easiest way to keep track is to look at the weather report. They always have pollen counts which will give you an idea of what to expect that day. And over-the-counter antihistamines can help with your symptoms if you’re safe to take them. If you’re ever in doubt, talk to your GP or an allergy specialist about your condition.

For when you need someone to talk to about your allergies, get in touch with our team of allergists. We can help you navigate your seasonal woes. Register as a new patient or call us on 02031 433 449.