Exercising in the Heat

With summer well underway, many people are trying to stay fit despite the temperature. While it is good that people are still being active in their everyday lives, if they are not taking necessary precautions to deal with this heat they may end up doing more harm than good.

One of the biggest factors you have to remember when you are going to be exercising in extreme temperatures is hydration. You are going to be sweating a great deal more than you would in a more moderate environment and must replace this lost liquid quickly. If you don't, you will suffer from severe dehydration which can lead to a host of problems including muscle cramps, dizziness, weakness and even death if left to progress long enough (note that this would be in very extreme cases).

Not only do you need to replace any water that is lost in your body, you also must replace lost electrolytes. In particular is potassium and sodium. If the balance of these are not kept in check you will not function properly and will have a difficult time continuing exercising in the heat. This is one reason why common beverages such as Powerade are so popular. They not only replace lost fluids but also help to restore these electrolyte balances. In any exercise that is lasting longer than an hour, especially endurance forms such as long distance running or cycling, taking in a beverage such as this will be greatly beneficial.

Another tip for exercising in the heat is to ensure proper clothing is worn. You will want something that is as light as possible and that is made out of a special material that will wick sweat away from your body. Also remember that black clothing attracts the heat more than light colored clothing so that particular color should be avoided. These tips will help keep you cooler and prevent heat stroke from occurring.

Also try your best to exercise in the morning or later evening. This is when the temperature will not be as warm and the sun will not be beating down directly upon you. If daytime exercise cannot be avoided, always bring a hat with you at the very least to keep the sun out of your face.

Finally, if your activity allows it, try to take short rest periods periodically throughout your exercise session. This is the perfect opportunity to allow your body temperature to return closer to normal and to replace lost fluids. Make sure you always carry a water bottle with you so that you have water in times of need.

If you notice that you are beginning to feel very weak and slightly dizzy while you are exercising in the heat it would be a very good idea to stop and take care of yourself. Heat stroke is a very serious condition that must be looked after promptly. In some extreme cases, help from a professional may be necessary.

So this summer when you are going out for a workout, keep some of these tips in mind. Not only will it help to make your exercise more enjoyable but it will also keep you safe and prevent serious illness from occurring.