As Abu Dhabi heats up during the sizzling summer months, follow these five general guidelines by personal fitness trainer Melissa Lowry and associate director of Athletics Wayne Young in order to stay fit, healthy and cool.

Staying hydrated is the best way to beat the heat. If you go running, cycling or even walking outside, always carry a small bottle of water. Also stay away from drinks with too much caffeine or sugar.

Remember: Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

Tip: If you get bored with regular water, slice a few clean strawberries, mint leaves and cucumbers — or a fruit of your choice — into a large container of water and place it in your refrigerator to make yourself some naturally flavored water.

If you need your dose of the outdoors and are willing to escape the comforts of air conditioning on full blast, go outside early in the morning. The coolest part of the day is always very early morning and you will be ready to go after an early morning workout.

Remember: Although many people think that late at night is cooler, the pavement and the day’s heat lingers for a very long time. Try to go outside as early as possible.

Tip: Try a sunrise jog on the Corniche with a friend.

When you are outside, don’t overexert yourself. In case you run out of steam and can’t get back home, make sure you always carry at least twenty dirhams for a taxi. You never want to be caught far away from home with no way to get back.

Remember: Always carry your NYUAD Emergency numbers on you in case you need help.

Tip: Make sure you have the Abu Dhabi taxi number: 600-53-53-53 in your phone. Call if you need a ride home.

Buy one of the latest styles of visors or caps from Aria Boutique to protect your face and head from the sun. Wear moisture-wicking, quick-drying gear that will allow your body to breathe and will ensure that you don’t suffer from heat exhaustion.

Remember: No matter what skin tone you have, always put on sunscreen of 30+ or higher for the best protection.

Tip: For those of you with severe sunburns, the plant souq at Mina Port sells aloe vera plants perfect for cooling off when everything hurts.

Of course, the best way to beat the heat is to escape it altogether. Although we may need to brave the outdoors every once in awhile, perhaps the best way to workout in the 40 plus degree celsius temperatures is by going to the gyms we have right here in Sama Tower. Classes will be running all summer and personal trainers can schedule a time to get you fit for your travels and adventures.

Remember: The Sama gym has great spinning classes if you cycle regularly outside.

Tip: Challenge your friends to climb the 45 stories of Sama Tower. The first one to the top buys the other lunch — a healthy lunch, of course.

Stay cool, NYUAD.