Heat stress or heat stroke is a kind of a condition which one experiences when the body is no longer able to cool itself with the help of sweating. When a heat stroke or stress occurs, one tends to feel dehydrated, dizzy and exhausted. This condition can also lead to heat cramps and fainting as well.
Sometimes a heat stroke can prove to be deadly as well. Those who work out for long durations of time in hot and humid conditions or work in extremely suffocated and hot environments are at more of a risk from suffering from heat strokes. This is why; we have come up with some ways which can avoid heat stress while doing cardio:
Drink Water at Regular Intervals
One of the best ways to avoid heat stroke and stress while exercising or doing cardio is to drink water at regular intervals. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, make it a point to have a lot of water as this will avoid dehydration and hence heat stress. You can also drink sports drinks, coconut water etc. to make up for the water that the body loses through stress. Avoid having alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
Avoid Exercising During the Hottest Parts of the Day
Another way to avoid facing heat stroke or stress is to avoid using horizon treadmills or horizon elliptical machines during the hottest parts of the day. If it is not possible for you to change your workout timings, then you can either alter the duration or intensity of the workout. Another way is to try to work indoors or away from the direct sunlight.
Wear Light Colored and Clothes made up of Thin Materials
Another way to avoid the heating getting to you is to wear light colored clothes while working out. Also, make sure you wear clothes that are made up of a very light or thin material. If you experience your clothes totally soaked in sweat, then it is better to change into a dry outfit. Wet clothes make it difficult for your body to cool itself as they tend to cling to the skin.
Stop Exercising if you Experience Dizziness
If during the workout session, you experience any kind of dizziness, cramps, dehydration or blurry vision, then you must stop immediately and allow your body to cool down. Drink water to rehydrate, let your breathing come back to normal and then start again if your body allows. Some signs of heat stress include panting, blurry vision, exhaustion, fainting, face becoming flushed or hot, muscle cramps, sweating heavily, heart rate getting too high etc.
Always Exercise when Someone is Around and can Check on you
To avoid facing a dangerous situation of fainting and not getting immediate attention, you must always exercise when someone is around you or near you. It is best to work out in a gym, in a park or at home but only when someone else is present around you to check on you.
