Beat the Heat- Exercise Safety Tips
The "feels-like" temperature in north central Florida is in the triple digits- and will continue throughout the weekend. So how do people exercise in temperatures that feel like you're being cooked?
Extreme heat is when the heat index or "feels-like" temperature is above 105 degrees. But the high temperatures don't have to keep you indoors when it comes to exercise.
Experts say drink lots of water, starting thirty minutes before you exercise outdoors, and continue drinking at least six ounces of fluid every 20 minutes.
If the workout is longer than an hour-- experts recommend switching to a sports drink like Gatorade.
The type of clothing and time of day is also something to consider before you leave the house.
"If you can work out, best thing is to get your workout in the morning, and if you can't do that, and you're not used to the heat, wait until it cools off-- but if you're going to do it around, when it's hot, like sometimes I do, just drink plenty of water, make sure you're hydrated," said Jimmie Jennings, a personal trainer in Gainesville.
Experts say take it easy; lower the intensity level of your workout if you're taking it outdoors, and give yourself extra time to adapt to the heat.
Listening to your body is key- signs of heat exhaustion include headache, dizziness, nausea, and a rapid heart beat.
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