Sweat it Out!

What I've noticed over the last few years working in the fitness industry is that a lot of people totally relay on the air conditioning system to keep them cool.

When the air conditioning unit isn't working properly or has broken down there are many a person complaining that they're too hot and they're sweating!

I find this very strange as those who know me know that I come from a martial arts background where it was natural to not have any air conditioning, apart from a couple of open windows during the summer and had to do all this wearing a thick, heavy gi, (karate suit) that got increasingly heavier as it got filled with more hard earned sweat.




So this got me thinking why it seems over the last few years attitudes have changed as people have gotten used to their creature comforts such as air conditioning. 

However I think they're missing a trick as mild to moderate sweating is beneficial to the body as it is our body's natural response to prevent overheating and it has many health benefits too. 

 Remember sweat only starts smelling nasty when it get old and the bacteria starts dying and breaking down and it's this that causes the smell.  As long as you ensure you wash yourself fully soon after your work out and wash your kit than sweating shouldn't be avoided but embraced.

Below are 4 reasons why sweating is good for you and your body. 

1.) Increases Blood Circulation:- Sweating helps cool the body down and helps open up and unclog the pores of the skin keeping our skin fresh and glowing.

2.) Helps Detox the Body:- Sweating helps remove substances from the body such as alcohol, cholesterol and salt.  Sweating helps remove toxins that can clog up pores and cause spots and other blemishes.  A 2011 study found many toxins seemed to be removed through the act of sweating.

3.)  Reduces the Risk of Kidney Stones:- Sweating helps remove salt from the body and keep calcium in the bones of the body.  This limits the build up of salt and calcium in the kidneys and urine, which is where the stones come from.  Sweating helps flush out the system better because it demands more hydration from the body.

4.) Prevents Colds & Other Illnesses  :-  Sweat contains peptides that helps fight against viruses, bacteria and fungi.  These peptides are positively charged and are naturally activated in salty, slightly acidic sweat.