Summer has arrived, and there are always going to be times when our training is going to take place in some very hot environments. Some gyms open up the doors and let the elements in. This helps reduce air conditioning costs in a time period when it can cost a small fortune to cool a gym, and in this economy, it’s an option that many gym owners are embracing. Training in an extremely hot gym can make for some very uncomfortable sessions. Realize that in many cases, keeping the gym hot is going to give you some advantages.

First off, then place is probably going to be pretty empty. Ever seen the Ronnie Coleman DVD’s where he is training in the world-famous Metroflex Gym in Arlington, TX, in the middle of the summer in the middle of the day? It’s easily 110 degrees in there, and Ronnie has the entire gym to himself. This type of training isn’t always comfortable, but it does mean you can super-set, drop set, and circuit train to your heart’s desire without interruption. If you’re tired of fighting the crowds when you train, consider a mid-day session at an open air gym!

Another advantage is that you’re going to be able to sweat out many of the toxins you’ve taken into your body through various means in recent months. Consider training in a hot weight room to be an hour in the sauna – without all that sitting around! Be sure not to be using creatine during the week if you plan on training in temperatures that high. Becoming dehydrated while using this very effective supplement can place the kidneys at risk.

When training in this fashion, it’s obviously important to stay well-hydrated. In addition, you’re going to want to ensure you make efforts to avoid slipping in the gym, either on the floor due to the puddle of sweat you’re likely emitting, or on the bench, as your hands and body may be quite sacked as well. Keep a towel handy and dry off frequently to avoid injury. Also, be on the lookout for sweat from others, which can pose safety as well as hygienic risks.

Finally, you may find that the membership rates are going to be very low for gyms that do not offer air conditioning. If their rates are competitive, ask about a membership on their hottest and emptiest day. The gym owner might find it in his heart to cut the price down a bit for someone crazy enough to train when the temperatures are that high. If money is tight and you think you’re tough enough, join up and save a lot over the air-conditioned joints!

Remember that any set of training circumstances is going to deliver a unique blend of advantages and disadvantages, but that opportunities will always exist for you if you keep an open mind and make the best of your circumstance. If a gym without air conditioning is available, consider all the options before immediately rejecting it, as many would.

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