Trying to stick to an exercise routine is difficult at the best of times, but even more so when the weather is sweltering, and this week with temperatures soaring to 34C in parts of the UK, many of you may have put your fitness regime on the backburner.

However, these tips on how you can stay fit and healthy even when it’s boiling outside will help you maintain your fitness levels.

Avoid midday heat

The early afternoon is the hottest part of the day, so if you do feel like going for a run try to avoid the hours between 11am and 3pm. Otherwise, you may find yourself a victim of the sun, and suffering from burns, dehydration and even heatstroke.

Stay hydrated

Whether you work out indoors or outdoors, it is important to stay hydrated at all times. Bring plenty of water with you and make sure you replace the fluids you are losing, particularly during hardcore cardio work.

According to Dr Cedric Cryant, fitness expert for the American Council on Exercise, speaking to Men’s Fitness, it is a good idea to drink up to 680ml of water two hours before training in hot weather and another 170ml to 230ml during every 20 minutes of exercise.

Change your regime

If your training schedule sees you doing HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) or long-distance running over the next few days, it is a good idea to switch it up while it’s hot. Perhaps opt for exercise you can do indoors under a fan and away from the sunshine.

Or, you could use this time to concentrate on muscle training, stretching with some yoga or pilates, or cooling yourself off with a swim. You could also get out your home cricket nets for a fun game for a great excuse to invite your friends over for a sociable evening.