When the sun is shining and the summer breezes are blowing, you’re probably happy to skip the gym and get outside for your workout. While getting some fresh air is always a great idea, exercising outdoors can also be dangerous on hot days. Here’s how to stay safe when you choose to head outside for a workout.

1. Make sure you know the signs of heat exhaustion. You might find that you have to set a slightly slower pace during a warm-weather workout, and that’s totally normal (and a safe thing to do). However, if you’re feeling unusually sluggish or lightheaded, it’s probably time to head inside. These could be early indications of heat exhaustion, which can become a dangerous condition if you push it.

2. Drink water before, during, and after your workout. Even if you don’t feel particularly thirsty, drink one or two glasses of water before you head out for a run. Then drink at least every 15 minutes during the workout, and have a few more glasses afterward. It’s important to stay hydrated because thirst only occurs when you’re already starting to get dehydrated—and that’s not something you want to happen on a particularly warm day.

3. Wear the right attire. Obviously, you don’t want to wear anything too bulky when the temperatures soar, but keep sun protection in mind, too. Opt for light, breathable clothing that wicks moisture and, preferably, features material that prevents sunburn. You also may want to wear a hat and some moisture-resistant sunscreen for an extra layer of protection.

4. Avoid peak sunshine. If you’re used to working out on your lunch break, it might be time to take a different approach. This time of year, the coolest temperatures fall in the early morning and the evening, when the sun isn’t at its brightest. You can avoid overheating by simply switching up the time that you work out.

8 Tips for Exercising in Summer Heat [Active]
Tips for Working Out in the Summer Heat [Shape]
The Dos and Don’ts Of Working Out In Warm Weather [HuffPost]

The constant ebb and flow of the seasons inform the ever-changing menu at The Winnisimmet Lounge, which features a mix of classic and contemporary Italian plates. Despite the fact it only opened in Chelsea about two months ago, the restaurant and cocktail bar has already been racking up the rave reviews for its creative food and drink.

Invite a friend along and enjoy the upscale fare for yourself, starting with a light bite like the grilled Caesar salad, the tuna tartare, or the arancini with braised oxtail ragu. For the main course, dig into a dish such as the rigatoni tossed with basil pesto and zucchini or the grilled sirloin steak with romesco and grilled broccolini. For a more casual entree, opt for the Winnisimmet burger topped with pickled red onions, slow-roasted tomatoes, and cheddar, all piled inside of a brioche bun.

There’s a reason that patios and balconies are such coveted apartment perks. They make it easy to get some fresh air without leaving the comfort of your own home, and they’re great entertainment spaces during the warmer months. If you really want to get the most out of your patio or balcony, follow these tips to maximize the space.

1. Opt for multipurpose furniture. In order to create a comfy space to hang out, you’ll have to fill at least some of your patio with furniture. However, you want to keep things as simple as possible, so opt for smaller pieces of furniture that can pull double-duty, such as ottomans that offer both seating and storage.

2. Don’t go overboard. You might be tempted to stuff your balcony full of cushy furniture, but fight that urge. When you’re working with a small space, less is more. Only add as much furniture as you need, and choose items that take up less room, such as wrought-iron chairs with comfy cushions.

3. Focus on the flow. When you start to arrange your furniture, keep in mind that you won’t just be sitting out on the patio. You’ll have to get in and out easily to grab another pitcher of lemonade or answer the door when a new friend arrives. Circle up your furniture in a way that allows for easy conversation and flow of traffic.

4. Never skimp on plants. The one area where you don’t have to hold back? Greenery. Your outdoor space should feel like an oasis, and plants can help achieve that effect. Try to find unused space for planters, like a corner tucked away behind a chair, or add flower boxes to your railing for some extra life and color.

15 Small Patio Decorating Ideas [HGTV]
How to Make the Most of Your Seriously Small Apartment Balcony [Apartment Therapy]
Four Tips for Decorating a Small Patio With Style [The Spruce]