by Patricia Wall – The Club at Woodbridge
Summer is a beautiful time to take your workouts outside—sunshine, fresh air, and longer days are all part of the motivation. But nothing ruins a yoga session in the grass or a sunset walk faster than a swarm of mosquitoes. If you read our last blog, you already know some great natural ways to keep them away. Now, let’s talk about how to put that knowledge into action so you can enjoy your outdoor fitness routine bug-free.
Pick the Right Time of Day
Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so try to plan your workouts during the late morning or early evening (before sunset) when the air is still warm but the bugs are less aggressive.
Tip: Check the forecast for humidity and wind—mosquitoes love still, moist air but hate wind. A breezy day? Perfect for a walk or HIIT session!
Dress Smart for Protection
Loose, light-colored clothing that covers more skin not only keeps you cooler—it also makes it harder for mosquitoes to land. Technical workout gear now includes breathable long-sleeve tops, lightweight joggers, and bug-repelling fabrics.
Bonus: Light colors also help you stay cooler and are less attractive to bugs than dark tones.
Use Natural Repellents Before You Sweat
In our last blog, we shared some powerful natural mosquito repellents like lemon eucalyptus oil, lavender, and citronella. These can easily be applied before your outdoor workout. Look for sprays or roll-ons that are sweat-resistant and safe for skin.
According to the CDC, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) is a plant-based repellent that has shown similar effectiveness to low concentrations of DEET when used correctly (CDC, 2022).
DIY Option: Mix witch hazel, distilled water, and a few drops of essential oil in a spray bottle for a quick, natural repellent to keep in your gym bag.
Create a Bug-Free Zone at Home
If you’re exercising in your backyard or on your patio, take some extra steps to make the space uninviting to bugs:
- Remove standing water from planters or buckets.
- Add citronella candles, rosemary, or marigolds to your workout space.
- Use a small fan or portable diffuser with essential oils.
Post-Workout Skin Care Matters Too
After your session, wash off any sweat and repellents, and apply an aloe-based lotion or tea tree oil to soothe the skin. If you do get a bite, dab some apple cider vinegar or a cooling calendula gel to reduce the itch naturally.
In Summary
You don’t have to choose between being active and being eaten alive by bugs. With a few natural tools, smart timing, and the right prep, you can enjoy every summer workout in peace.
Want to share your own tips or favorite natural mosquito solutions? Tag us on social media or drop a comment—we’d love to hear how you’re staying healthy and bite-free this season!
Disclaimer:
This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always test natural products on a small area of skin before full application to avoid allergic reactions. Consult your healthcare provider before using essential oils, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition.