Beat the Heat with 11 Summer Essentials

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor sports and fitness activities. Beaches, pools, lakes and riding trails all set a brilliant scene for fun in the sun. All of this summer sport does come with a handful of hazards though, so it's time to gather some essentials and make the best out of the months ahead.

• Sunblock: Plan to wear it all the time, so you can worship without paying the price. For active days, wear at least 15+ UVA/UVB waterproof protection.
• Hat: You work so hard to keep a healthy and youthful body, don't let your face grow old before you do. A visor is great for sports, and a big floppy straw hat works wonderfully for strolling on the beach.
• Swimsuit: Take advantage of the warm water while you can. Swim, surf, ski and spend as much active time in the water as you can. It's so much fun, you'll forget you're burning tons of calories.
• Aqua Shoes: They'll protect your feet from icky things on the ocean floor, hot sand at the beach and will keep you running blister-free in the pool.

• Sunglasses: The sun's glare can also be harmful to your peepers. Wear a pair with 99 to 100 percent UV protection. Get the kids some too.
• Goggles: Keep the salt and chlorine out of your eyes, so you can swim longer.
• Chlorine Removal Shampoo: Being "green" is cool when we're talking about protecting the earth. Being "green" absolutely stinks when referring to the color of your hair. Special shampoos designed to remove pool chemicals are a must.
• Saline: Chlorine burns the eyes after a while. A splash of saline calms the burn quite nicely.
• Pool Workout: You should head to the pool with a game plan. Give this calorie torcher a try.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes. Ouch!
• Beach Bag: How else are you going to carry around your summer essentials?