How the army keep cool when exercising in the heat

It takes the average person between five to 14 days to acclimatise to a new climate. Once acclimatised, it allows the body to regulate its core temperature more efficiently, thereby allowing you to train harder and more effectively.

However, we all know this is not always possible, for instance, did any of you struggle during the hot spell at the end of May (yes we have had some sunshine this year!)? Or have you struggled when you go on holiday for a week and want to retain some level of outdoor fitness? If yes, then imagine what the Army experience when flying 4,000 miles and jumping out the back of a plane into a hostile environment that’s 20c hotter than the one they left!

We’ve put together this handy guide, similar to the one the military use to help you make the most of your outdoor training in hot weather.

1. Wear clothing that allows heat loss – tight clothing will trap your body heat in.

2. Don’t train in the hottest part of the day and stick to the shade as much as possible during your fitness programs.

3. Drink cool water continually before, during (where possible) and after the exercise classes. Cold water will help to lower the body’s core temperature faster than warm or room temperature water.

4. Maintain a nutritious diet. The body gets its electrolytes from food which are lost through sweat and so need to be replaced.

5. Use sun screen to prevent getting burnt. Go for one that’s not going to run when you sweat and don’t apply it above the eyes because if this runs your eyes will be stinging! Make sure you wear a hat to protect the forehead.

6. Avoid alcohol and diuretics, not always possible we know, as holidays = beer however, they will contribute to dehydration resulting in poor performance.