How to stay cool when feeling the burn
Most people know about the health benefits from regular exercise. Now, learn how to stay safe and healthy even when you’re exercising outdoors in hot weather.
As the temperature rises, we tend to sweat heavily and tire easily. If we go too hard in these conditions, we can develop signs of heat exhaustion, including extreme fatigue, light-headedness, and weakness.
The most serious form of heat illness is heat stroke, which happens when our body temperature reaches dangerously high levels. It usually starts with nausea, vomiting, altered mental status, and collapse. Death can occur if the body is not rapidly cooled by bathing in ice water.
Try the following tips from Kaiser Permanente family physician Bob Sallis, MD, to keep your summer exercise safe and fun:
- Exercise outdoors in the morning or evening, when temperatures are cooler and humidity is lower.
- Wear light-colored clothing, which reflects heat and will help make you more comfortable.
- Apply sunscreen before heading out.
- Make sure to stay hydrated before, during, and after your workout.
If you begin to feel poorly, then slow down or stop and find a cool place to rest. And remember, walking is a great way to stay fit in almost any weather. Kick off your walking program today.*
*Kaiser Permanente is not responsible for the content or policies of external Internet sites.
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