Medical Rounds with Robert Schmelzer

The summer weather offers the perfect setting to get fit outdoors. But, there are ways to do it safely. Robert Schmelzer is an exercise physiologist and program manager for Good Life Fitness at Hartford HealthCare. He offers some tips to staying healthy while working out.

Q. WHEN YOU ARE EXERCISING IN THE HEAT, WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND DOING TO KEEP YOURSELF SAFE FROM HEAT EXHAUSTION/STROKE?
A. Exercise when and where it is cool. It’s best to be in an air-conditioned space with good air circulation early in the morning or later in the day when the sun is not as strong. Keep humidity in mind, even if the temperature is not so hot the humidity will make it harder to cool down. Allow yourself plenty of time in a cool area to cool down after exercising. Break your exercise into shorter bouts during the day so that you can remain active but not get too hot. Wear appropriate clothing for the weather, dress in light breathable clothes. Use lighter colors if you are outdoors.

Q. HYDRATION IS SO IMPORTANT WHILE EXERCISING, HOW MUCH WATER SHOULD YOU BE DRINKING?
A. It is very important to stay hydrated, but even more so in the summer months. The recommendations for how much to drink in a day really depend on you. How much you weight, how active you are where you live all influence how much you need to drink to stay healthy. However, a general guideline is to drink .5 to 1 ounce per pound of body weight. And waiting till you are thirsty to drink does not work by the time you feel thirsty you are already becoming dehydrated. In addition to with each meal, we should try to drink throughout the day, but especially around exercising. Try to drink in in the hours leading up to your plans to exercise or be physically active. Also drink 15 minutes before, every 15 minutes during, and 15 minutes after exercising.

Q. WHAT TYPES OF INJURIES DO YOU TYPICALLY SEE IN THE SUMMER MONTHS?
A. The biggest injury/illness that we see if dehydration it can happen so easily and quickly.

Q. HOW CAN YOU AVOID SUMMER INJURIES?
A. By staying well hydrated and staying cool even while outdoors. Following these simple tips can keep you safe and fit this summer.

For more information

Visit: Good Life Fitness

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