MONTREAL, Canada — As temperatures soar, a growing number of outdoor gym enthusiasts in Montreal are opting to beat the heat by working out early in the morning.
Dozens of fitness aficionados are rising before the sun, squeezing in their daily training sessions before the mercury climbs.
“I love working out outside,” said Myriam Leclair after her morning routine at the de la Commune gym in Griffintown on Tuesday. “Whether it’s -30 or +30, I’ll be outside.”
While temperatures on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings hover at a comfortable 18°C, the heat intensifies by noon, with the humidex making it feel more like 34°C, according to Environment Canada.
Dr. Mitch Shulman highlights that mornings are the optimal time for outdoor exercise during hot days. “There is less heat, less humidity, and less pollution. It’s always the best time to go for a run or do something outdoors,” he explained.
Health experts caution that exercising during high heat and humidity can be dangerous, particularly early in the season when our bodies are not yet acclimatized.
“Be careful, and realize that none of us will have a chance to acclimatize because the period is so short,” Shulman advised. “Assume you are not acclimatized. Give yourself a chance to adapt and take it easy.”
Experts also stress the importance of staying hydrated, listening to your body, and finding a place to cool off for at least an hour to regulate body temperature.