Here, the verdict on whether sweat releases toxins and proves you’re working out hard, plus answers to other questions about this important body basic.
The fitter I get, the more I sweat. Why is that?
“There are two main reasons. One is that as you improve your fitness, you tend to exercise more intensely, which can make you sweat more,” explains Mary Beth Brown, an assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Indiana University.
“The other is that you get better at sweating the more you do it.” You’ll start perspiring earlier in your workout, and more of your sweat glands will be activated to help rid your body of excess heat.
But keep in mind sweat isn’t the only measure of how hard you’re working. Some workouts leave you less drenched simply because of the nature of the moves.
“How much you sweat is tied to many factors, including what type of activity you’re doing, your age and your genetics,” says Dr Kory Gill, a sports medicine specialist at the Texas A&M Health Science Center.
A better indicator of your performance is how difficult it is to talk midway through an activity. During a moderate-intensity workout, you should be able to speak in broken sentences; during vigorous exercise, you should be able to manage only a few words at a time.
Why does sweat burn my eyes?
“Sweat contains salt, which can irritate the eyes. Plus, it’s slightly acidic compared with the eye’s fluid,” Mary explains.
Fortunately, there’s no evidence that salt from sweat can harm your eyes, says Dr Stephanie Marioneaux, a spokeswoman for the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
If perspiration is interfering with your workout, wear a sweatband or a moisture wicking hat or visor to trap forehead moisture before it has a chance to creep down into your eyes. Keep artificial tears on hand to use if you do get an errant drop.
Is hot, sweaty yoga really any healthier than regular yoga?
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Anne Hathaway - Self Love Tips To Feel Good In Her Own Skin
Fueled by the desire to stretch herself creatively and help women and girls around the world, The Hustle star Anne Hathaway opens up about tossing old insecurities and finding a new level of strength and purpose.
How To Take Advantage Of The Powerful Benefits Of Touch!
Touch not only feels good but is great for your health, the newest science shows. Here’s how to take advantage of its powerful benefits, including better sleep, less stress, and stronger immunity.
Break It Down: The Food Hangover
A big meal can make you just as headachy and bloated as overdoing alcohol. Author, scientist and nutritional consult Dr Susan Kleiner explains how to bounce back.
6 Tips To Stay Strong And Healthy
It’s that time of the year, but it doesn’t mean a cold has to take you down. Same for the flu. These new science-backed strategies will help keep you strong and healthy.
Scary Things Sugar Does To Your Body
Before you submit to that sugar craving over and over again, consider these damaging health effects that may result.
Peak Performance
A new wave of treatments and products improves your complexion today – and how it behaves in the future.
4 Tips Sharpen Your Focus
You can get more done while feeling less stressed and gain extra free time – for fun, family and you – along the way. Discover the innovative sciencebacked strategies to make it happen.
5 Amazing Wellness Getaways
Start the new year fully recharged by booking a wellness getaway at these amazing resorts, where health and fitness are at the heart of it all.
New Age Therapies To Bust Your Stress
New age therapies can sound kooky, but they may be the key to getting your mind out of its rut.
Run. Live. Love.
If Carla Dunareanu sets out to do something, you can count on her never doing things by halves. Including eating pizza.