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Does allergy season interfere with your workouts? For many allergy sufferers, Spring and Fall can bring an onslaught of allergy symptoms. Itchy eyes, itchy throat and a runny nose can all make outdoor exercise difficult. But with a few simple changes, taking your workout back outside may be easier than you think.

Allergies or not, regular exercise is essential for overall good health. The key to exercising outdoors during allergy season is to be prepared. Before you head out the door for your daily walk, check the calendar. Although the exact dates vary, pollen seasons are fairly predictable. If you know what you’re allergic to, you can find out when the season starts in your area. Once you know, you can take the right precautions, such as taking allergy medications.

Another key to outdoor exercise during allergy season is to check your local weather. Many stations will forecast the pollen counts and educate viewers about what plants and pollens are currently troublesome. As a general rule, pollen counts are highest on warm, breezy mornings. A morning jog is not ideal if the weather is forecasting a dry, warm morning. Pollen counts may be very high. Try working out in the early evening instead. For parents, exercise can be difficult in the early evening because children are home from school or day care. By investing in a jogging stroller, getting a daily workout in will be much easier. Your child can join you while you exercise, getting them fresh air while giving you the opportunity to stick to your regular routine. The BOB Revolution jogging stroller is an excellent choice for active families, and is sturdy enough to last years.

If the pollen count is extremely high, skip your usual jog or bike ride and choose a less intense form of exercise such as fitness walking. If you are jogging, you are breathing faster, and you will inhale more allergens and irritants. Fitness walking early in the morning or before dinner is an easy and fun workout. Parents can take their children along and a standard stroller is all that is needed. If you are in need of a sturdy stroller for regular fitness walks, a Britax stroller may be the answer. They are a consumer favorite and are extremely user friendly. 

It is important to see your doctor regularly if allergy season is particularly difficult for you. Stay informed on how and when to take allergy medications. Many physicians recommend taking an antihistamine an hour before exercise to ensure the medication has time to take effect. It is usually a good idea to take allergy medication on a regular basis for the duration of allergy season. While some doctors will prescribe a daily allergy medicine, over the counter options are abundant. If you manage your symptoms on a daily basis it will help you carry on with your regular workouts as much as possible.