Are You Hot?

If you live in the northern hemisphere, it is summer right now and it is HOT!
How do you keep working out when sitting on a chair leaves you sweaty?

- Work out early in the morning (with the birds). Avoid 10 am – 4 pm.
- Drink water before, during, and after your workout
- Wear clothes that will allow sweat to evaporate (should be loose fitting)
- Lower the intensity of your workout
- If you have to, go walk at the air conditioned mall. You can bring a bag to carry (to use as a weighted object to challenge yourself). Do not bring money!
- If you have air conditioning at home, enjoy it!

Here are the symptoms and treatment for heat exhaustion and heat stroke (from the American Council on Exercise):
Symptoms of heat exhaustion: Weak and rapid pulse, low blood pressure, fatigue, headache, nausea, dizziness, general weakness, paleness, cold clammy skin, profuse sweating, elevated body core temperature (below or 104 degrees F or 40 degrees C).
Treatment: Stop exercising, move to a cool and ventilated area, lay down and elevate feet 12-18 inches, take fluids, monitor temperature.
Symptoms of heat stroke: Hot and dry skin, bright red skin color, rapid and strong pulse, change in mental status (irritability, aggressiveness, anxiety), labored breathing, elevated body core temperature (above or 105 degrees F or 41 degrees C).
Treatment: Stop exercising, transport to the emergency room immediately, remove as much clothing as feasible, try to cool the body in any way possible (wet towels, ice packs/baths, fan, take fluids).

Please use common sense when exercising during those hot summer days and listen to your body.