Suggestions for Smart, Sensible Summer Workouts By Susan Gazerro
Here we are again in the month of May, and your workouts will soon be done in the heat of summer. One of the most important things to remember is you have to stay hydrated. It’s also important to maintain electrolytes and your salt intake. I have always said that vinegar and salt are healers, and they are. When you sweat, your body loses not only water, but also electrolytes and salt. This delicate balance of water and electrolytes is crucial to keep your body functioning properly. If you don’t drink enough water, you can get dehydrated and suffer from light-headedness, nausea, and may even pass out. If not recognized, dehydration can even result in kidney failure, and in extreme cases, death. However, if you drink too much water without replenishing your electrolytes, you can experience hyponatremia. This can lead to confusion, nausea, muscle cramps, seizures, or even death in extreme cases. This is something most people are not aware of. We all know about being dehydrated, but few of us know about hyponatremia. To avoid this potential reaction, you need electrolytes and/or salt, not just water. Here are some things to remember when you are exercising in the summer heat: 30 30 Shop Shop In In RI RI
The time of day is most important. Think about when it is coolest. In the morning and after the sunsets are best, especially if it’s going to be a super hot day. Unless you are training for an event that takes place in the daytime heat, try to avoid exercising from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., which tend to be the hottest parts of the day. Stay hydrated. Hydration is the key to avoiding heat stroke. Also, keep in mind that some medications may intensify the effects of heatrelated illnesses. Another thing to keep in mind is consuming diuretics like caffeine and alcohol before exercising in the heat can accelerate the effects of dehydration. Be sure to drink lots of water or any beverage that can keep you hydrated, without overloading on sugar. Slow down. When exercising in heat and humidity, it’s important to take it easy. Give your body time to adjust to the warmer temperatures. Learn how your body responds to heat and humidity before trying out a new sport or exercise activity. If you feel tired or dehydrated, stop, seek shelter, and drink water. Don’t do what you would normally do in colder temperatures. Again, start slow and see how your body reacts to the heat. Build your workouts slowly.
