5You have to go the bathroom. Badly.

before exercise. Working out in cooler conditions may help.

It’s called runner’s trots, but don’t be fooled by the name: Even walkers can experience loose bowels, especially when logging long distances. During exercise, your body directs blood flow away from your gut to working muscles, which can trigger diarrhea, Holland says. Dehydration and pre-race anxiety may exacerbate the problem.

Don’t eat anything for two hours before exercising. Skip high-fibre and high-fat foods, caffeine, and artificial sweeteners, all of which can make things worse. Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise. Begin your workouts after bowel movements, and make sure you have access to a restroom.