Be careful when exercising in hot weather!

Cyprus International University (CIU) Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Chair, Assist. Prof. Dr. Özge Özalp, expressing that many people have been limited when it comes to exercising due to the extremely hot weather experienced in the country in recent months, advised that despite everything, exercising is very beneficial for the body.

Talking in relation to the effects of exercising in hot temperatures, Özalp went on to say, “An individual’s body temperature increases due to the metabolic effects caused by the effects of the hot temperature and humidity, and exercise. There is an increase in sweating when you add temperature to the effects of exercising, as it tries to balance the body temperature”.

Explaining that as well as hot temperatures, humid weather makes sweating difficult, Assist. Prof. Dr. Özalp informed that this situation leads to a metabolic weight increase in the body, while also increasing the heart rate, blood pressure, and the rate of breathing.

Özalp noted that exercising uncontrollably during hot weather carries serious risks for individuals with chronic cardiovascular, respiratory, and endocrine diseases and that they should be careful.

In the event that when exercising during extremely hot weather, sufficient sweating is not experienced or sufficient liquids are not consumed prior to and during the exercise, Özalp advised that problems such as muscle cramps, extreme tiredness, fainting, heat stroke, reduced consciousness, dizziness, nausea, extreme sweating, sight problems, tiredness, increased heart rate, and low blood pressure, may be experienced.

Providing information in relation to the things to pay attention to when exercising during days where the heat can be felt more, Özalp stated, “One should not exercise during the hours of 11:00 and 16:00 when the sun’s rays are at their most steep angle, if you are to endure the sun, one should benefit from protective products (hat, sunglasses, sun cream), and clothing that is tight or does not allow the body to sweat, such as those made of the Nylon fabric, or heavy clothing, should not be worn”.

Reminding that prior to exercising, a lot of liquids should be consumed, Özalp pointed to the importance of replacing water in between exercising intervals, that has been lost due to sweating.

Explaining that it is necessary to find out whether one is physically appropriate to exercise and whether your health situation poses any obstacles or not when it comes to exercising, Özalp advised seeking the advice of a physiotherapist in relation to how often one should exercise, at which intensity, how many days a week, and for how long.

Stating that exercise is the most natural medicine for the body, Özalp reminded us that it is necessary for it to be applied in an informed manner.