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Beat the heat after exercising outdoors with these cooling techniques

- Natalia Ningthouja­m For more such stories, visit healthshot­s.com

The temperatur­e is going up, but that shouldn’t stop you from exercising. The only thing to remember is whether you go for a run, or any other aerobic exercise, make sure to follow ways to cool down after working out. Certain exercises help the body to gradually return the heart rate, blood pressure and breathing to normal levels.

Fitness enthusiast Vaneeta Batra says doing physical activity in summer can induce an increased level of stress and lead to heat-related problems like dehydratio­n, heat cramps and even heat stroke. “Once the temperatur­e touches 35 degree Celsius, exercising outdoors can be dangerous. You may get a light headache or feel dizzy,” says Batra.

Here’s how you can let your body recover after an intense workout:

DRINK PEPPERMINT TEA

It might sound odd but having a hot cup of peppermint tea can actually help you cool off. The heat from peppermint will lead to a sweating.

STRETCH OUT

Walk and stretch for at least 10 minutes until your heart rate slows down. This will keep you from passing out in the heat.

TAKE A SHOWER

After stretching, hit the showers but ensure that water is not cold the whole time. Soaking in hot and cold water alternativ­ely helps reduce the heart rate.

STAY HYDRATED

Drinking water during and after workouts is a must. You can also have coconut water after the workout as it also boosts the energy levels.

GRAB A GLASS OF CHOCOLATE MILK

Not only is it a nice drink to bring your body temperatur­e down, but it also has lots of protein and sugar to help your body recover.

TIPS TO BEAT THE HEAT WHILE EXERCISING

OUTDOORS: Exercise early morning or late evening

AS TEMPERATUR­ES SOAR IN THE COUNTRY, EXERCISING OUTDOORS CAN BECOME A TEDIOUS TASK. A FITNESS EXPERT DOLES OUT TIPS THAT WILL HELP THE BODY COOL DOWN AFTER A WORKOUT WITHOUT SUCCUMBING TO HEATSTROKE

If you plan to exercise outdoors avoid the hottest time of the day. Pick the right spot

Try to choose an area in the shade to take a walk or for any of your outdoor exercises. Hydrate before heading out

You can take liquids in any form, including detox drinks if you don’t like plain water. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine during summer.

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PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTO­CK

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