Exercising in the Heat: How It Affects Your Heart
Training in Summer Places Extra Strain on Your Heart.
With the arrival of warmer weather, many people continue training outdoors.
However, high temperatures force the cardiovascular system to work harder to keep body temperature stable.
As a result, the same workout you do during winter can represent a much greater effort in summer.
What Happens to Your Heart When It's Very Hot?
During exercise:
- Your heart rate increases.
- Your body loses fluids through sweating.
- Blood volume decreases if you are not properly hydrated.
- Your heart has to pump harder.
All of this increases cardiovascular stress.
Who Should Take Extra Precautions?
People with high blood pressure, a history of heart disease, or those over the age of 50 should take extra precautions.
The same applies to people performing high-intensity workouts or participating in sports competitions during the hottest months of the year.
Warning Signs During Exercise
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Feeling faint
- Significant shortness of breath
- Strong palpitations
It is advisable to stop exercising and consult a specialist
Tips for Exercising Safely:
- Avoid the hottest hours of the day.
- Stay properly hydrated.
- Reduce the intensity if temperatures are very high.
- Wear breathable clothing.
- Listen to your body's signals.
The Best Prevention Starts with a Cardiovascular Check-Up.
Each person responds differently to exercise and heat.
A cardiovascular check-up allows you to assess the condition of your heart before undertaking demanding training sessions, especially during summer or when preparing for new sporting challenges.
At INSCOR, we perform personalised cardiovascular assessments to help you train with maximum safety.