Here's How Athletes, Workers Beat The Hot, Humid Weather
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- For many Minnesotans there is just no way to avoid the recent spell of hot and humid weather.
While some have the luxury of staying indoors in air conditioned comfort, many others aren't so lucky.
For starters, it's how they make a living. Some people work in the elements, regardless of the season.
Everyone from roofers to landscapers knows that the best way to beat the heat is to start early and stay hydrated.
Same holds true for athletes, many of whom are preparing for summer football camps.
Seems summer football training always comes during some of our hottest, most humid weather.
At a camp in Brooklyn Park, high school football co-captain Brandon Oxley said the camp has kids from third to ninth grade.
"All ages are here," he said.
Oxley's one of the captains helping to coach the young kids. He says it's days like Monday when it's better to be chosen on the side of the skins.
But even for the kids dressed in T-shirts, there is plenty of water and sport drinks on the sidelines.
"Obviously, staying hydrated is very important," Oxley said. "But having fun is one of the main priorities of what we do here, so we want to make sure the kids are having a good time."
Whether it's play or work, it's critical to replace the fluids lost to perspiration.
But landscape workers, like Mitch Schroeder, say there are other things that help beat the heat.
"Gatorade, a good night's rest and a big breakfast," he added.
Schroeder works for Wanvig Landscaping and says he prefers sport drinks over plain water.
"It coats the mouth better, it keeps you more hydrated and has electrolytes and sodium, to help you from cramping," Schroeder said.
But when it comes to really, really hot situations, just head up a ladder and onto a roof.
Adam Haugan was installing siding and soffits on a new home and he said that in steamy weather many construction crews will start the day early.
"Drinking lots of water, try to stay in the shade if possible. A lot of times we'll get a wet rag and wrap it around the neck. That helps evaporate the heat off you and keeps you cool," he said.
And it will never hurt if you have the luxury of taking lunch break in the air conditioned comfort of a car.
