Should You Work Out Inside or Out?
By Sara Butler
For many people, getting outside is one of the best things about their workout -- and the weather won’t keep them from doing it! But there certainly are times that you should move those activities inside for your health and wellness since avoiding heat-related illness is very important. Here are a few things you need to consider if you’re not sure if you should move your workout inside.
Heat-Related Illnesses
The most important reason to move things inside is to avoid heat-related illness. Heat-related illnesses are conditions you can develop when exposed to the heat outside. They are:
- Heat Cramps
- Heat stroke
- Heat Exhaustion
- Dehydration
It’s important to know what to look for to avoid these conditions because they can be a serious threat to your health and wellness.
Concerning Temperatures
So, how hot is too hot? If the heat index is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, then you must be mindful of what you’re doing outside. The heat index is calculated using relative humidity and air temperature. Being directly in the sun can raise the heat index by as much as 15 degrees Fahrenheit too, so keep that in mind if you’re not going to be in the shade.
Risk Factors
It’s important to understand if you’re at risk for developing heat-related conditions. Very young people, as well as elderly people, have a higher risk than other groups of people. If you’re already sick, then you’re putting yourself at a higher risk too since it may make you more sensitive to the heat.
You should also be aware that being exposed to high temperatures outside can also make any existing conditions you have worse.
Prevention
Before you go outside, make sure you’re well hydrated and limit how much sugar, caffeine, and alcohol you eat. You should also wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes when you’re outside to help keep you cool in the heat. Try to plan activities inside during the hottest part of the day.
When you are outside, drink a lot of water. You also need to be kind to your body, taking a lot of breaks in the shade as needed and avoiding surfaces that reflect the sun, such as blacktop.
Heat is a serious issue and can have a big impact on your health. So take care when you're outside to make sure you're caring for yourself appropriately.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Denton, Tex.