Is It Safe To Exercise In The Heat?

There are many weight loss claims being made in the fitness industry and one of those claims is the whole concept of “exercising in the heat”.  The train of thought behind this “concept” is that heat increases your metabolic rate and burns more calories.

But is this really the case? It’s a question that has been debated in the media and in the fitness industry for years.

While it’s true that exercising in the heat can cause you to burn more calories, there are some downsides to this method.

For one thing, exercising in the heat causes the body to sweat excessively, which can lead to dehydration and overheating. The other problem with exercising in the heat is that your muscles don’t get a chance to cool down between workouts.

This is why it is important to drink plenty of water before, during, and after you work out in the heat and to take plenty of rests throughout your workout as needed.

So for example, if you are training for a marathon (or even a half-marathon), make sure to bring plenty of water with you to help you stay hydrated during your workout. You can also take sips of water while you run or walk.

In addition to drinking enough water, make sure to drink plenty of electrolytes during your workouts in the heat. Electrolytes are minerals that help your body regulate fluid levels and keep you from getting too dehydrated.

So for example, if you are doing strength training, make sure you drink a sports drink with sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium in it. During your workout, you may even want to consider taking a few sips of water mixed with salt. Salt helps your muscles retain water.

But here’s the thing…

The biggest enemy you have to deal with when exercising in the heat is dehydration. It’s just that simple.

So if you’re looking to exercise in the heat or maybe you’re already doing so…

… I’ve got several more tips and hacks waiting for you over on this week’s podcast discussion.

Go ahead and SMASH that PLAY button right NOW and get all the Dad-Splanation Goodness downloading directly into your brain! Matrix-style! 😉

Catch you on the other side!

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 – Intro
1:32 – Welcome and Salutations
1:55 – Meat & Potatoes: Is It Safe To Exercise In The Heat
2:52 – No shortage of weight loss claims
4:40 – A serious “gotcha”
7:10 – You’re better off doing this one thing
8:07 – Signs of heat exhaustion
11:21 – It’s absolutely critical to do this if exercising in the heat
11:48 – Tip 1: Wear light, breathable fabrics
12:37 – Tip 2: Stay hydrated
13:30 – Tip 3: Be Aware
14:23 – Tip 4: Exercise in the early morning or late evening
15:16 – This is so funny
15:46 – The bottom line
19:00 – Closing Credits