Can I run or exercise if my palms and soles feel hot?

Aug 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, running as an aerobic exercise can promote blood circulation and overall health. However, whether it is suitable to run when experiencing heat in the palms and soles depends on the severity of the symptoms, accompanying manifestations, and underlying causes. If you experience any discomfort or are uncertain, it is advisable to seek timely medical consultation with a qualified physician.

Generally speaking, as an aerobic exercise, running can promote blood circulation and overall health. However, whether it is suitable to run when experiencing heat in the palms and soles depends on the severity of the symptoms, accompanying manifestations, and underlying causes. If there is any discomfort or uncertainty, it is recommended to seek timely medical advice from a professional physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If the sensation of heat in the palms and soles is mild, with only slight warmth and no other discomfort such as dizziness, fatigue, or palpitations, and the symptom lasts for a short duration, it may be caused by high ambient temperature or emotional stress. In such cases, moderate running exercise may be appropriate. Physical activity can help dissipate heat, improve local blood circulation, and alleviate the feeling of warmth. However, the intensity should be controlled, opting for low-intensity activities like jogging, and strenuous exercise should be avoided to prevent excessive physical strain.

If the heat in the palms and soles is significant, accompanied by excessive sweating, irritability, insomnia, dry mouth and throat, or caused by conditions such as hyperthyroidism or internal heat due to yin deficiency, running exercise is not advisable. At this time, the body is in an abnormal state, and running may increase energy consumption, worsen discomfort, and even trigger other symptoms. Exercise should be suspended, adequate rest taken, and changes in symptoms monitored; medical consultation should be sought when necessary to identify the underlying cause.

Prior to regular exercise, attention should be paid to physical condition, and adjustments made promptly if discomfort arises. Exercise should be carried out in suitable environments, avoiding high-temperature periods or stuffy spaces. If frequent heat sensations in the palms and soles occur or are accompanied by other abnormalities, timely medical evaluation should be conducted to determine the cause before developing an exercise plan. Sufficient hydration should be maintained after exercise to preserve fluid balance and avoid excessive fatigue.