It's a scorching summer day, and you're trying to get some work done and suddenly your office runs out of electricity. The heat is unbearable, making it difficult to concentrate and hampering your productivity. Now, apply that scenario to your workout routine. As summer arrives, the decision to exercise in an air-conditioned gym or endure the heat outdoors becomes a common dilemma. So, if you're in the same boat or want to know the perfect temperature for working out, let's start by discussing the benefits and drawbacks of working out in an air-conditioned (AC) gym during the summer months.
Pros Of AC Gym
Favourable Condition
An air-conditioned gym provides a controlled environment where the temperature is set to a comfortable level. According to Karnal-based certified trainer Jayant Jawa, "Working in an AC gym ensures optimal comfort, improving your overall workout experience."
No Room For Exhaustion
High temperatures and excessive heat can lead to heat exhaustion or even heatstroke, posing risks to your health and well-being. Jawa said, "By working out in a cooler environment, you eliminate the danger of heatstroke and provide yourself with a safe space to exercise without worrying about any health complications."
Also Read: Excessive Sweating: Causes And Treatment
Prevents Dehydration
Exercising in a cooler environment can help regulate your body temperature, preventing excessive sweating and dehydration. "This may allow you to maintain higher levels of performance and endurance during your workouts, pushing your limits and achieving better results," Jawa added.
More Focus
Heat and discomfort can be distracting, making it challenging to concentrate on your workout. Jawa stated that exercising in an air-conditioned gym eliminates these distractions, providing you with a cool and comfortable environment that allows you to stay focused and dedicated to your fitness goals.
Cons Of AC Gym
Suffocation
Indoor gyms often have limited ventilation, leading to stagnant air. Jawa stated that this can create a stuffy atmosphere and may affect the overall air quality, potentially causing discomfort for some individuals. He added that it is important to consider the quality of air circulation within the gym.
Dependency
Relying solely on air conditioning can create a dependency, making it harder to adapt to outdoor conditions. Jawa warned that if your workouts are exclusively performed in a controlled environment, you may struggle to acclimate to the natural elements when exercising outdoors. "It's essential to maintain a balance between indoor and outdoor workouts to avoid this dependency," he added.
What Should Be The Ideal Gym Temperature?
Finding the ideal temperature for a gym can be subjective, as individual preferences vary. According to Jawa, "The comfortable range is typically between 68°F to 72°F (20°C to 22°C)." This allows for a cool and refreshing environment without being too cold, ensuring comfort for most individuals, he added.
Also Read: Is Gym Comparison Keeping You From Workout? 4 Foolproof Ways To Stay Focused
Pro-tip
Jawa said that it is critical to balance indoor and outdoor workouts to adjust to changing weather conditions and avoid becoming overly dependent on air conditioning. Finally, the decision should be based on your personal needs, tolerance to heat, access to exercise location, and environmental issues.
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided by a registered medical practitioner. However, we recommend you consult your healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment.]
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