Dubai: Temperatures hovering past 40 degrees centigrade are being hailed as good news by outdoor fitness enthusiasts who believe that heat has multiple benefits.
The belief isn’t new. However, experts caution that there is a fine line between reaping the benefits of hot weather and suffering from heat-related illnesses.
In Dubai, fitness enthusiasts, including runners and cyclists, are a common sight, with many in favour of exercising in hot weather.
They claim that the weather increases the body temperature due to the heat and sweat, and that the increased temperature results in more calories burned. They also believe that the heat helps condition muscles.
The claim is only partially true, according to fitness experts.
The advantages are better muscle flexibility and suppleness, but one doesn’t burn more calories just because it is hot, said Sasa Tegeltija, personal trainer and co-founder at ‘Fit You — Even If You’re Lazy’, a fitness company in Dubai.
Engaging muscles
Speaking to Gulf News, he said: “Sweating is perceived to be a form of weight loss. One needs to actively engage muscles to burn calories and sweating is a by-product of doing so. Sweating is the body’s mechanism to control body temperature.”
Tim Garrett, fitness trainer and owner of Healthy 4 U, a freelance personal training company in Dubai, told Gulf News that in hot weather, the heart needs to work more to ensure that muscles are oxygenated and the body temperature is maintained.
“It is true that the body needs to work harder to get rid of the excess heat and ensure the core temperature stays within the normal range. However, training in temperatures that are too high may result in a lower intensity of exercise and not be as effective,” he added.
Garrett said that working out in the heat can pose a risk. “One should take the necessary precautions to keep the body as cool as possible. Symptoms of heat exhaustion can vary from heavy sweating, clammy skin and nausea to weakness. When body temperature rises above 39.4C, it could result in a rapid and strong pulse, weakness in any part of the body and even unconsciousness. Cramps in the legs are common.”
Joshua Mbaga, fitness instructor at Target Gym UAE, Dubai, told Gulf News: “Heat acclimatisation should be a priority through adequate hydration, appropriate moisture wicking clothing and footwear, and sufficient heat protection such as sunscreen and a cap.”
Strong belief
Despite advice, residents hold on to their beliefs.
Pakistani resident Mohammad Khan, 22, told Gulf News that he has moved his home gym to the balcony to take advantage of the hot weather. “I enjoy running outdoors, especially during the summer because I lose weight far more easily due to the heat and sweat. My home gym — now on my balcony, has weights and a beach press; when I exercise outdoors, it makes me work harder,” he said.
Jordanian Hamad Yousuf, 56, told Gulf News: “I prefer running outdoors even in the heat because I believe the body pushes itself more to deal with the temperature.”
