Keep Yourself Hydrated

Warm weather is here and hot weather is coming. This information comes to us from folk who live in the desert, so even though their rides are short, they know hot.

But let's say you want to go for a two, three or ten hour ride...with us. Here are some questions they ask:

First, are you ready? Do you know what you need to carry with you? Do you recognize the symptoms of hyperthermia (too hot)? What can you do to ward off problems and get to your destination safely?

Know the physical signs your body gives to you when you are too hot:

Sweating - this is the bodies cooling system. But it needs water to produce desirable results. Not carbonated beverages.

Vasodilatation - when the body heats up the blood vessels enlarge to circulate more blood toward the skin. But sweat evaporates quickly, the skin dries out and the skin begins to absorb heat from the air.

The increased blood flow begins to absorb the heat also and it circulates through the body making you hotter.

Heart rate and blood pressure can increase. Heart beat 50% to 70% or greater.

Heat Cramps - in your legs and lower abdomen. This is a symptom that your bodies supply of water and electrolytes are running low.