The extreme heat being experienced in Covington County right now could actually make it a bit easier to lose weight, for those who are properly hydrated and willing to brave it.

Local personal trainer Robert Johnson said that exercising outside renders the best results.

“The heat shouldn’t really bother you,” Johnson said. “As long as you are hydrated and get plenty of rest, then you should be OK.”

Johnson said that the heat helps a person sweat, which will help them stay cool.

“When the body is exposed to heat it sweats, which regulates the temperature of the body,” Johnson said. “So as long as you are hydrated and not running on a full stomach, the heat won’t bother you.”

Food is an important factor when it comes to running in the heat, Johnson said.

“Make sure that you eat fruits and vegetables that hydrate you right,” Johnson said. “Cucumbers, melons, carrots and stuff like that.”

He said that water intake is another important factor.

“When it is 80 to 90 degrees, you want to make sure that you are drinking around eight to 10 ounces every 30 minutes or so,” Johnson said. “That way it will cool your body off. When it gets into the 100s, just make sure that you are listening to your body. There is a thing called getting waterlogged, which will do more hurt than good if you are drinking too much water.”

Johnson is known for his hard workouts, and he said that he would rather his clients work out outside than in the air conditioning.

“If it is too hot outside, we will go out and then come back in for a minute and then go back outside,” Johnson said. “Working out outside actually generates enough heat to burn calories easier than if you were working out in the air conditioning. The sweat will actually protect you from passing out if you are hydrated and not working out on an empty stomach. When you work out inside, your body has to generate enough heat to burn calories, so if you are already outside in the heat, it makes it easier.”

Another tip that Johnson said, is to dress appropriately.

“You have to make sure that you are wearing the correct clothing that will keep you cool,” Johnson said. “Sometimes you can get a wet bandana or cloth to keep around your neck to cool you down. Also, make sure that you are stretching, because the heat will affect your muscles if you aren’t adapted to running in the heat.”