By Bae Ji-sook
Staff Reporter
Fitness fanatics have been advised to take extra precautions while exercising during the rainy season.
With the Korea Meteorological Administration having scrapped its forecast for the period this year due to the unpredictability of Korea's increasingly subtropical climate, medical experts are warning of the potential for accidents and health problems.
The monsoon season, which tends to come between the end of June and early July, could result in slippery roads and reduced visibility, Samsung Medical Center warned.
The rain could also lead to a fall in body temperature and cause additional troubles, the center added.
In a bid to ensure the safety of exercisers, the center's Dr. Park Won-ha issued the following guidelines to help people ensure they avoid problems:
When running on rainy days, make sure you are on ``safe' tracks in parks rather than near vehicles. Always wear waterproof garments to maintain body temperature.
It is best to refrain from heading into the mountains during rainy weather because slippery courses could lead to trouble. Those who choose to do so should wear waterproof clothing and be on guard against danger. Chocolate or other high-calorie food should be taken along on such outings. They help warm the body when body temperature falls.
For many golf lovers, rain isn't a real problem. However, when it rains, there is a chance of lightening strikes because of the flat terrain and little protection. Extra outfits should also be taken along.
For indoor activities such as swimming, indoor cycling and other aerobic activity, about 20 to 60 minutes is fine, three to five times a week.