Health Tip: Exercising in Hot Weather

(HealthDay News) -- Heat injuries range from mild forms to more serious types, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Heatstroke -- when the body's sweating mechanism quits, the skin become hot and dry, and the body loses most fluids -- can be life-threatening.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions for exercising safely in hot weather:

• Drink plenty of fluids even when you're not thirsty, and take frequent breaks during exercise.

• Get your body in good shape before hot weather hits.

• Limit outdoor exercise to early in the morning or late in the evening, avoiding the midday hours.

• Exercise more slowly and less vigorously for longer periods.

• Wear lightweight clothing, and avoid heavy gear.

• If someone looks like they're having a heat injury, seek immediate medical attention.