Running and sweating - natural protection against hyperthermia

Feb. 1, 2012 - PRLog -- Sport and sweating go together. Whether in daily life or during sport activities the production of sweat helps to cool off the body, and is thereby a measure of thermoregulation. A large amount of excess body heat is produced while running ; to protect the body from hyperthermia (body overheating), the natural reaction is sweating. However, sweating causes the reduction of water and important minerals; therefore, this loss has to be compensated by drinking a lot of water and respecting a healthy nutrition.

The human skin consists of two to four million of the so called eccrine sweat glands, which are responsible for the thermoregulation of the body. A high number of sweat glands are located on the bottom of the foot, the palm of the hand, and the forehead. High temperatures or physical exercises activate the body’s natural reaction to produce water all over the skin surface through the sweat glands. In this process, evaporation causes the body to cool off. Besides, the natural composition of sweat protects the skin from pathogens.

But why do some athletes sweat more than others? Well trained runners sweat because the principle of compensation is also true for the production of sweat. As the body adjusts to regular training, the physical fitness is improved. The amount of sweat that is produced is also dependent on genetic factors, clothing, climate, body weight, and the physical condition of the athlete. Sweating, particularly during long-distance runs, causes the reduction of a lot of liquid and electrolytes; thus, the loss has to be compensated to avoid dehydrogenation. During competitions there are many supply stations which provide the runners with the necessary beverages. To compensate the loss of liquid during training it is convenient to wear special belts where bottles of water can be stored while running.

In regard to the right clothing, it is vital to pay attention to the material. Cotton is definitely not the right choice as it soaks up the sweat instead of transporting it to the outside. Another important aspect is that the wet clothes should be changed immediately after exercising ; dry clothes should be worn in order to avoid a significant reduction of the body temperature.

More interesting facts and tips about the right clothing, running in winter, as well as plenty of information about current running events and health matters are available in the runner’s blog of Omron on www.myjogstyle.com.


Company profile

OMRON Healthcare has been found 1933 in Kyoto and developed into one of the leading producers of sensoric systems and technologies in the healthcare market. Since 35 years the German subsidiary „OMRON Medizintechnik“has successfully established itself by its continual innovations. Leading technologies interpreted for exact measuring technqiue with easy intuitive handling make Omron products accessible not only for professionals but also for the general usage. 2009 the company with its 4.000 employees generated a worldwide revenue of about 777 billion dollar.

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