Does exercising in high temperatures burn more calories?
Nov 22, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
As temperature rises, the enzymatic activity within human body cells increases, accelerating cellular metabolism and enhancing the rate of aerobic respiration. Consequently, the body requires more oxygen and glucose to sustain cellular metabolic processes. Since glucose is the primary energy source for the human body, this leads to greater consumption of internal heat energy.
Exercising in high temperatures burns more calories, but it is not beneficial to health and can easily lead to severe dehydration.
As temperature rises, the activity of enzymes within human cells increases, accelerating cellular metabolism and aerobic respiration. This increases the body's demand for oxygen and glucose to sustain metabolic processes. Since glucose is the primary source of energy, the body consequently consumes more heat (energy). However, exercising in high temperatures significantly increases sweating, making dehydration more likely and potentially leading to collapse. Therefore, prolonged exercise in hot environments should be avoided as much as possible, and daily caloric intake should be properly managed.
It is recommended to reduce exercise intensity when working out in high temperatures and to replenish fluids and electrolytes frequently in small amounts. Drinking large quantities of water at once should be avoided, as this not only increases the burden on the heart but also accelerates electrolyte loss, potentially causing symptoms such as muscle cramps.
