FitView: Summer Fitness Family Fitness
By Efren Martinez
Summer came roaring back along with our State re-opening. Although we may not be out of this global pandemic entirely, our State and County are able to enjoy some of the loosened rules. This is due to your diligence and good behavior in following the Covid restrictions and getting vaccinated. It’s been a long time coming and I’m happy it’s now happening as we enter into the hottest part of the year.
I for one can’t work out wearing a mask. I’d pass out from breathing in my own C02. Thankfully the rules have changed and many of us can now go without a mask in many places of businesses, including most gyms. Timing is everything and as the summer sizzles it’s best to move your workouts indoors. It is just too hot to workout outside in the summer unless you start your workout at the crack of dawn. Another concern from working out outside is the air quality. Last summer we had the worst air because of all those wildfires. Although I sure hope we do not have a repeat of last year’s wildfires our States extreme drought conditions make it an unfortunate possibility. So let’s keep our workouts safe and healthy with workouts as much as possible indoors. Many gyms are offering specials right now for you to join or even come back.
If you decide that outdoor fitness is for you please remember the sunscreen, stay continuously hydrated, avoid working out in the hottest part of the day and be mindful of how your body is reacting to the heat. Knowing the difference between heatstroke and heat exhaustion can save your life. Unlike heat exhaustion, a heat stroke requires immediate medical attention. Someone experiencing heatstroke may have a headache, confusion, no sweating, rapid heart rate, nausea or vomiting and may lose consciousness. If heatstroke is suspected it is vital to take the following steps. Move to an air-conditioned place, take a cold shower or using cold compresses, drink plenty of fluids, remove tight or extra clothing layers. If your symptoms continue or worsen, seek medical attention right away. One of the best ways I personally know to quickly bring down the body’s temperature is to apply cold packs directly under your armpits.
Another mindful note is to please remember not to take your pets for a walk anytime the temperature is over 80 degrees. Quite often we think it’s OK because even when the outdoor temperature is a pleasant 77 degrees for a walk, the street payment can be as hot as 125 degrees or more. Your pet’s paws are susceptible to 1st and 2nd-degree burns. Another simple way to tell whether or not the pavement is too hot for your dog to walk on is to put your bare hand on it and try to hold it there for 10 seconds. If it is too hot for you to keep your hand on for 10 seconds or longer it is too hot for your dog to walk on. Let’s stay safe and mindful this summer for ourselves and our pets while we work out and work off those shelter in place extra pounds.
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