Heat, humidity, excercise, and water intake.

[TheNiceGuy]

Hi all


I was wondering what the difference is for training in hot, humid climates vs dry or temperate climates? I know in the hot desert, for example, you need to take in an incredible amount of fluids to stay balanced - even if you are not thirsty. Also, you need to replace electrolytes if exercising. How about for hot, humid climates?

As a side, I notice I tire much faster in hot humid weather when exercising than any other weather I have experienced (although I have never been in a hot dry desert). Why is this, and does this mean I am getting a better workout? Or does it mean I'm damaging my body or something?


Thanks!

 

[Balt]

If you are moving from a dry climate to a very hot and humid one, it would be prudent to not exercise too strenuously in your first week or two. Your body needs time to adjust. Make sure to keep yourself hydrated, because you are going to be sweating like you never have before.

Rhabdomyolysis is not something you want, and I've met a couple of people who got it after moving from dry climates to humid ones because they didn't have an adjustment period before beginning heavy exercise.

 

[StageLeft]

Hot you need more water, period, whether humid or not. Exercise is much harder in hot weather because you are expending a lot of energy staying cool. You'll never see record running times done in hot weather. Everybody is much quicker running in 50 F than 90 F. Just this month Runnersworld magazine said every 5 F above 60F you'll lose 20-30 seconds/mile in pace. Absolute, unbelievable bullsh*t (the effect is not nearly that severe), but still, you'll be slower.