06262014Thu
Last updateFri, 20 Jun 2014 1pm

Hot weather tips

As the hot season intensifies, dehydration can become an issue for some people, especially those who are not used to doing exercise under a blazing sun.  Here are some tips from Katherine Tallmadge of the Live Science website.

  • Drink enough water to prevent thirst.
  • Monitor fluid loss by checking the color of your urine. It should be pale yellow and not dark yellow, too smelly or cloudy.
  • For short-duration (less than 60 minutes), low-to-moderate-intensity activity, water is a good choice to drink before, during and after exercise.
  • Any time you exercise in extreme heat or for more than one hour, supplement water with a sports drink that contains electrolytes and six percent to 8 percent carbohydrates. This prevents “hyponatremia” (low blood sodium), which dilutes your blood and could also lead to serious impairment and death.
  • Begin exercise well-hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids the day before and within the hour before, during and after your exercise session.
  • Avoid alcohol the day before or the day of a long exercise bout, and avoid exercising with a hangover.