Australia is currently enduring its most intense heatwave since the infamous Black Summer of 2019-2020. Yet, remarkably, this sweltering climate hasn’t dissuaded numerous fitness enthusiasts from sticking to their workout regimens.

In south-eastern Australia, where temperatures have soared beyond 40 degrees Celsius, committed individuals can still be seen engaging in physical activities despite the oppressive heat. This raises an important question: Is exercising in such extreme weather conditions safe, and what precautions should be taken?

Health expert Crain emphasizes that heat-related illnesses often stem from a significant rise in core body temperature or the additional strain on the heart as it struggles to regulate body heat. He advises, “If anyone begins to feel nauseated or starts vomiting, it’s a clear signal to stop exercising immediately and focus on cooling down.”

Signs of heat-related illness

Other warning signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, muscle cramps, headache, and an overall sense of weakness. Staying informed and cautious can help mitigate the health risks associated with exercising in such extreme heat.

”If anyone experiences nausea or vomiting, that is a sign they need to cease exercising and take immediate action to cool down,” he said.

Other symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, cramps, headache and general weakness.

Anyone experiencing these should move immediately to a shaded area, remove as much clothing and protective equipment and rehydrate.

Crain says more serious warning signs such as slurred speech, impaired decision making and poorer brain function indicates heat stroke.

“That requires immediate medical attention … straight away you’d be calling for medical help … trying to cool them down with something like an ice bath,” he said.

While even elite athletes are at risk from heat-linked conditions, some people are at more risk than others.

They include those aged over 65 years, especially if unfit. The SCA cautions that age effects on thermoregulation, the body’s process of controlling internal temperature, may become progressively worse with age.

The risk of falling victim to heat stress is also greater among heart or kidney disorder patients.