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Does heat effect exercise?

Today I went for my usual 4.5 mile run. This run was so different from my rainy, cool early morning run only days ago. PE exertion last Wed - a 2. Today's PE - a 7. Heat can effects your ability to perform.

Exercising in hot weather puts extra stress on your body. Air temperature, and humidity all can increase your body temperature..

Your body cools itself by circulating more blood through your skin which leads less blood for your muscles, which in turn will increase your heart rate.

Take extra precautions while running or exercising outside in the heat.

1. Drink plenty of liquids - water, water, water. Water will help your body sweat, which is your body's natural way to cool you down.

2. Acclimate - It takes several days for your body to acclimate or adapt to heat. Gradually increase the time and/or intensity.

3. Dress appropriately - light clothing (dry wear) , sunglasses, hats all aid in keeping you cool.

4. Wear sunscreen - a sunburn will decrease your body's ability to to cool itself.

Be aware of heat cramps (muscle), heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you begin to feel head achy, faint, or experience nausea, cool yourself down immediately and get hydrated.

Happy trails

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