Take precautions to beat the heat

Summer is officially here and, as is normal in Albany, we can expect many hot, sweltering days ahead. In the excessively warm and often humid conditions that frequently occur in the summer months, heat stress can be a real threat for individuals who engage in intense exercise activities. This applies to exercising outdoors or indoors in facilities without air conditioning.

Be aware that exercise in hot, humid conditions can cause significant dehydration in a short period of time. To avoid heat injury, an individual should take precautions regarding hydration, acclimatization, and proper clothing. The following guidelines will lay out specifics in each of these three areas.

HYDRATION

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends the following hydration guidelines.

Before exercise

Check your hydration status before exercise because there is a wide variability in fluid needs for each person.