4 benefits of training in the heat

Summer is here. The joyous season of long days, casual adventures, and beachside escapades allure us to step outside and welcome the great outdoors. This season is all about embracing indolence, but what’s in it for those who still want to exercise? Well, they can always rely on us. EVO is open 365 days a year from 6h30 to 23h and is the perfect getaway from the summer heat.

However, if you’re feeling outdoorsy, let us tell you there are plenty of benefits of training in the heat. Beyond the obvious challenges it may present, some overlooked advantages can make you thrive in ways that traditional gym training can’t. So stick around and get to know the 4 benefits of training in the heat. 

Benefits of training in the heat 

1 – Burns more calories 

The temperature outside is higher, so exercising in the heat will elevate your body’s temperature even more. That will lead to an increase in your metabolic rate. Your body has to work harder to cool down, burning more calories and making it easier to torch some extra kilos. 

2 – Improves your cardio game

It’s a similar system to the one above. In the heat, your cardiovascular system will acclimate to become more efficient. A study done on elite athletes showed that heat training increases the production of haemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen to your body’s organs and tissues. This means you’ll improve your cardiovascular endurance. 

3 – Enhances mental strength

Running on a treadmill with the A/C on is one thing — and EVO clubs are the perfect example of that — but exercising under challenging conditions can help you build the mental resilience to make you go further. Training in the heat will require adaptation to the discomfort, but it will also build the mental strength you can transfer to your daily life, helping you be more resilient overall. 

4 – Sweat more efficiently

Yes, it’s possible to improve your sweat efficiency. First things first: we all sweat, it’s our body’s natural way of regulating temperature. What you might not know is that exercising in the heat helps your body sweat more efficiently. A study shows that you sweat more profusely when you exercise in the heat, and that can lead to better thermoregulation. 

Precautions when exercising in the heat 

1 – Hydrate even more

Hydration is essential in any fitness routine. When exercising in the heat, it becomes even more relevant. So drink plenty of water before, during and after your training session. Consider electrolytes too; they’re a good idea to replace minerals lost.   

2 – Choose the right time of the day 

It’s ok to exercise in the heat, but avoid the hottest parts of the day. Schedule your workouts for the early morning or late afternoon, when the temperatures are lower. 

3 – Pick the right clothes

Dressing appropriately is paramount to make your training experience more comfortable. Choose lightweight and breathable clothing to allow airflow and quicker sweat evaporation. Avoid dark colours — they absorb the heat. Instead, choose light ones: they reflect the sunlight keeping you cooler.