Too hot to trot? 

Summer time is a great time to exercise with more daylight hours, but you need to take precautions since the heat and humidity can cause problems.
And in general folks past the age of 60 have to be a little more careful. As we age our bodies ability to dissipate heat weakens.  Everyone is a little different, so check with your doctor, and especially if you are on medication check with him/her, since some elevate your heart rate etc.

• Best time to exercise is in the morning before 10 am.  Even in late afternoon the pavement may still be very hot from hours in the sun.
• Stay in the shade when possible.
• Acclimatize.  Your body takes a few weeks to get used to higher temperatures.
• Drink, drink, drink!  You need to drink water before, during and after you exercise.  If you are getting sore calve muscles etc, it could be sign of dehydration.  Fruits are loaded with water so eat lots of them too.
• If you have had problems in the past of heat exhaustion etc. you are more prone to a repeated event so check with your doctor.
• Wear lose fitting, breathable clothing.  And white or light colors best to wear.  Dark colors hold in the heat. 
• Wear sunscreen at all times and use a visor to block sun off your face.
• Limit your exercise to shorter distances on hot days, or try inside walking, or a 50 plus fitness type of exercise class. These classes are indoors and most are air-conditioned.  Call for a schedule if you need a summer list! 541-4500 or Covenant Health
• Try to keep excess sweat off your body.  If playing tennis keep a towel close by to wipe off sweat.  Too much sweat on your skin holds in the heat more!
•   If the temperature and humidity add up to over 160 then it is a hot, dangerous day to exercise. It may be “too hot to trot”.