ASK THE EXPERTS: Am I Sweating Too Much?

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09/13/2011
General Exercise
Many exercisers pose the question, “If I sweat too much, does it mean I’m out of shape?”

Many exercisers pose the question, “If I sweat too much, does it mean I’m out of shape?”

Sweating is one of the most important things that the body produces every day. There is a misconception that sweating a lot while exercising is a sign of an out-of-shape person, when in truth many beginner exercisers sweat less than more seasoned athletes because their bodies are not as adept at cooling itself off.  

Why Do We Sweat? 
  • When working out aerobically, muscles need oxygen. When large amounts of oxygen are inhaled, bodies use that oxygen to produce heat, and the result is sweat.
  • Sweat helps clean pores and removes toxins from the body. It also helps to regulate internal body temperature to avoid overheating.

 

Stay Hydrated!

Sweat is about 95 percent water and when bodies sweat, water levels decrease, making it extremely important to stay hydrated during workouts. Some people require more water than others, depending on weight and height – a good standard to follow: for every 15 minutes of working out, exercisers should drink four to six ounces of water.

 

 

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