Training

The bare facts about heat stroke

In case summer ever decides to start, here’s an article on heat stroke from Gretchen Reynolds of the New York Times. The best line, relating to how heavy clothing can increase risk:

“I’m all in favor of naked practice sessions,” [University of Connecticut researcher Douglas] Casa says. Unfortunately, sunburn also is thought to have an impact on your abilitity to dissipate heat.

Other than that, nothing particularly surprising in the article — unfortunately, there’s no quick fix or miracle cure for heat stroke. It’s a matter of caution, acclimating to hot weather (especially if, say, an unusually cold and wet summer has limited your exposure to hot days), and looking out for warning signs like dizziness and confusion. Another interesting point: while hydration is important, it’s perfectly possible to get heat stroke even if you’re fully hydrated.