The fitness industry always has some weight loss claims from time to time. One popular weight loss tactic is to exercise in the heat, as doing so is believed to burn more calories.
From exercising on hot, sunny afternoons to wearing garbage bags to promote sweat loss, many people swear by this method to lose weight quickly.
Nevertheless, you may wonder whether you actually burn more calories exercising in the heat and if it’s safe to do so.
Technically, you do burn more calories in the heat. However, it comes with a major drawback.
During exercise, your body temperature increases to support increased physical demands. To prevent overheating, your body has a tightly controlled heat regulation system, which causes your body to sweat and dissipate heat into the air.
If you’re exercising in an already hot environment, your body needs to work even harder to cool your body, which requires more calories. Yet, it’s important to distinguish between a slight increase in calorie expenditure and rapid weight loss.
When exercising in hot weather or deliberately overheating your body, such as by wearing heavy clothing, you’ll naturally sweat more to cool your body. Though you may see a drop in body weight after a workout, it’s almost all due to a loss of water weight.
Furthermore, your body can easily acclimatize to new environments. While you may initially burn more calories if you’re not used to working in the heat, your body will adapt and gradually require less effort and calories to cool your body.
Also, consider your tolerance to exercising in the heat. If you don’t enjoy it or can only sustain it for short periods, you may be better off exercising in a cooler environment you enjoy so you can exercise for longer periods at a greater intensity.
All in all, though you may burn a few more calories in the heat, you’re best off choosing exercise you enjoy and can sustain in the long term.
How safe is it to exercise outside in hot weather
Exercising in the heat increases your risk of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration.
Signs of heat exhaustion include excessive sweating, clammy skin, weakness, a weak pulse, dizziness, and headache. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop exercising, move to a cool location, and drink plenty of fluids.
If left untreated, this can lead to heat stroke, which is characterized by a body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher, hot and dry skin, disorientation, and in rare cases, seizures. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. While you can certainly exercise outside in the heat, there are important considerations to ensure your safety:
Temperature. Always check the current and forecasted temperature before exercising outdoors. The higher the temperature, the greater risk of dehydration and heat stroke.
Humidity. As humidity increases, there are more water droplets in the air. This makes it more difficult for your body to dissipate heat and sweat.
Hydration. Drinking water during any exercise is important, but it’s crucial when exercising in hot weather due to increased sweating. Be sure to sip water regularly to replace any lost fluids.
Experience. If you’re new to exercising in the heat, start slowly and reduce your normal intensity until your body adjusts. This usually takes up to 2 weeks.
Tips for exercise in hot weather
To exercise safely in hot weather, be sure to consider the following:
Wear light, breathable fabrics.
Stay hydrated with water or a sports beverage.
Look at your local heat index report. Avoid going out if it’s advised not to.
Start slowly and lower your intensity as needed.
Stop if you notice any symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Exercise in the early morning or late evening when the temperature is cooler, if possible.
While exercising in the heat may give you an additional challenge, preparing ahead of time can save you from unwanted injury and illness.
If you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, always consult a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise regimen.
Exercising in the heat can add challenge to your workout regimen. Though many believe it also helps burn more calories, the effects are minimal.
That said, if you wish to exercise in the heat, there are important safety concerns you’ll need to consider. As the temperature and humidity increase, so do your risks of heat illness and dehydration.
To ensure your safety, be sure to drink plenty of fluids, wear light and breathable fabrics, and always check the heat index report before exercising outdoors. If you’re new to exercising in the heat, start slowly at lower than normal intensities.
While you may burn a few extra calories exercising in the heat, only do so if you enjoy it and can safely tolerate it. Otherwise, exercising in cooler environments is as effective for weight loss.
