Dealing with the MidWest

Indiana can be quite an international place, it goes from the freezing cold of the Arctic to the roasting heat of Central Africa, from the rain of the Amazon to the drought of Sahara… and all that in just a few weeks! With such long winters, it’s natural that people try their best to enjoy the sun’s heat whenever it is available. Temperatures above 90 are not uncommon in this area, and therefore one should take some precautionary measures.

Planing the time, route and clothing

As the day advances so does the heat. The early hours in the morning are typically the coolest ones, and humidity hasn’t reached its peak yet. Pick a safe route with plenty of trees around, which will provide shade and absorb the sun rays better. Loose, light-colored clothing is the best to fight the heat; it’s not just about looking good, but also about staying safe and comfortable.

Pace yourself

For those who work-out regularly, it’s mentally challenging to adjust the pace to match the conditions. Somehow the mind plays a trick, making them believe they are lacking if they slow down. It’s very different to workout at 70 compared to 90 degrees. Use your common sense and allow your body to get used to the new temperature by decreasing the pace, distance, or time of your activity.
Watch for warning signs, if you feel your heart-rate is too elevated, or you feel lightheaded, weak or confused, stop the activity immediately, get plenty water and move to a cool environment, even before trying to head back home. Always stay informed on what to do in each case.

Hydration

The body eliminates salts, minerals, and water with sweat. The best way to replenish the body is by drinking sport-drinks specifically designed for that purpose. If you are on a low-salt diet, suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions, be sure to talk to your doctor before you start consuming sport-drinks.