Can you take a hot shower immediately after exercising?

Nov 25, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
Generally, you should not take a hot shower immediately after exercising. After physical activity stops, it takes some time for blood flow and heart rate to return to normal. Showering right away can be very dangerous and may cause symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision, and general weakness. In particular, older adults are at high risk of triggering acute cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, such as angina, myocardial infarction, and cerebral thrombosis.

Generally, you should not take a hot shower immediately after exercising.

After physical activity stops, it takes some time for blood circulation and heart rate to return to normal. Taking a shower right away can be very dangerous and may cause dizziness, blurred vision, weakness, and other symptoms. In particular, older adults are at higher risk of acute cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events such as angina, myocardial infarction, or cerebral thrombosis. After exercise, a significant amount of blood remains in the muscles. If you shower immediately, the skin competes with muscles and vital organs for blood flow, potentially causing temporary ischemia in critical organs like the brain and heart, which could trigger health problems. It is generally recommended to wait about 20 minutes after exercise—until your heart rate and breathing have stabilized and you are no longer sweating—before taking a hot shower.

It is also advised to stretch after exercise. Skipping stretching may lead to bulky calves and less desirable body contours. Therefore, stretching helps improve overall body shape and line.

    


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