Can Summer Workouts Make You Sick?

Summer’s scorching temperatures can be a double-edged sword for fitness enthusiasts. While staying active is essential for overall health, pushing yourself too hard in the summer sun can lead to surprising consequences – you might actually end up getting sick (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Exercise-Related Heat Exhaustion

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The Risks of Overexertion in Summer Heat

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  Dehydration and Its Consequences: According to Dr. Rajeev Gupta, Director of Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, excessive exercise in summer heat can lead to dehydration. When you sweat profusely during exercise, your body loses essential fluids and electrolytes. This loss can result in dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps, and impaired cognitive function. In severe cases, dehydration can escalate to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition characterized by high body temperature, confusion, and seizures.




• Heat Stroke: A Severe Heat-Related Illness: Heat stroke is one of the most serious conditions resulting from excessive exercise in hot weather. It occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system is overwhelmed by heat, leading to dangerously high body temperatures. Symptoms include confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures. Immediate medical attention is crucial, as heat stroke can be fatal.




• Exacerbation of Existing Health Conditions: Dr. Gupta points out that overexertion in hot weather can worsen existing cardiovascular and kidney problems. For individuals with asthma, the risk of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction is heightened. Studies have shown a link between excessive physical activity and increased cardiovascular mortality during hot weather, emphasizing the importance of moderation and caution.

Exercising Smart in the Summer Sun

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  Shorter, Moderated Workouts: Aim for 30-45 minute exercise sessions, especially if exercising outdoors. Shorter workouts help manage your body temperature and reduce the risk of dehydration.




• Embrace the Early Bird: Schedule your workouts for the cooler morning hours when the sun’s intensity is lower. This allows your body to regulate its temperature more efficiently, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses.




• Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout. Proper hydration helps replace fluids lost through sweat, preventing dehydration and maintaining optimal bodily functions.




• Choose Your Exercises Wisely: Opt for isotonic exercises such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, or skipping rope. These activities promote cardiovascular health while keeping you cool with moderate exertion. They are less likely to cause overheating compared to more intense exercises.




• Leave the Powerlifting for Later: While weight training is important, intense activities like heavy lifting, excessive push-ups, or other isometric exercises generate significant body heat. Limit these activities in the summer months to avoid dehydration and heat-related illnesses.

Additional Tips for Safe Summer Workouts

• Wear Appropriate Clothing: Choose lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics for your workout attire. Light-colored clothing can also help reflect the sun’s rays, keeping you cooler.




• Use Sun Protection:Apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Wearing a hat and sunglasses can further shield you from the sun.




• Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to signs of overheating, such as excessive sweating, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and nausea. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop exercising immediately, move to a cooler place, and hydrate.




• Acclimate Gradually: Allow your body to gradually adapt to the heat by slowly increasing the intensity and duration of your workouts over a period of days or weeks. This helps your body adjust and reduces the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Summer’s heat can pose significant challenges to staying active, but with careful planning and precautions, you can enjoy your workouts safely. By staying hydrated, choosing appropriate exercises, and listening to your body, you can continue your fitness journey even during the hottest months. Remember to prioritize safety and moderation to reap the rewards of staying active without the risks of heat-related illnesses.

Reference:

1. Exercise-Related Heat Exhaustion – (https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/exerciserelated-heat-exhaustion)

Source-Medindia