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chistjoseph.org /// CHI ST. JOSEPH HEALTH 15 Stay cool during your summertime workouts. Overheating is a very real risk when it comes to working out in warm weather or a steamy gym. Getting too hot can lead to problems such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and even life- threatening heat strokes. Fortunately, your body has a built-in cooling system. You can help it do its job by making the following preparations before working up a sweat. FIND YOUR FUEL For the majority of workouts, drinking water is the best option to remain hydrated while sweating. However, for really strenuous or long workouts, sports drinks can be useful for replacing electrolytes. Equally as important is avoiding alcohol, caffeine and any drinks loaded with sugar before or during exercise. SELECT YOUR SPOT Choose where and when you work out with care. Try to schedule your workout in the morning or evening, when the temperature isn't as hot. Typically, this means anytime before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. Likewise, find cool locations to exercise. Run on shaded trails, work out beside fans in the gym or swim laps in a pool. These measures can go a long way in helping your body regulate its temperature. COVER TO COOL Make sure your clothing is light in weight and color. In addition, try to choose fabrics that are breathable and can wick away moisture. If you're exercising outside, put on sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 that is resistant to water and sweat. BELIEVE IN BREAKS If you feel like you're sweating excessively, get very thirsty or start experiencing muscle cramps, these could be early signs of heat exhaustion. Take breaks in a cool area to prevent symptoms from getting worse. If early signs of heat exhaustion persist or worsen, visit the emergency room or call 911. Making Exercise a Breeze JACQUES MAMIGONIAN, M.D. Jacques Mamigonian, M.D., offers a broad range of family medicine services to patients of all ages. Meet Dr. Mamigonian After receiving his medical degree from the Autonomous University of Guadalajara in Mexico and completing his residency at the Brazos Family Medicine Program, Dr. Mamigonian was board-certified by the American Board of Family Practice. "Family medicine allows me to build long-lasting relationships with patients, which provides them continuity of care," says Dr. Mamigonian, family medicine physician with CHI St. Joseph Health Primary Care. "We offer patient-centered care for people of all ages in our community." Dr. Mamigonian, along with Adel Massoud, M.D., practices at Primary Care South College Station. For an appointment, call 979-690-4260.