Question:

I am 65 years old and workout at a wellness center where the temperature is maintained at 60 to 65 degrees. I have argued that those temps are way too cold for my body. Can you help me with any supportive information? Thank you for your time.

Answer:

The temperature of your wellness center can make a big impact on your workout. However, the temperature may simply depend on which area of the wellness center you occupy the most.

For example, the International Fitness Association recommends that for the aerobics studio, cardio area, weights area and Pilates studio should all be maintained at approximately 65 to 68 degrees during occupied times. These recommendations are based on OSHA regulations and the American College of Sports Medicine.

Occasionally, this becomes a challenge to facility managers because the more people that occupy that space, the cooler the thermostat needs to be in order to maintain the appropriate temperature during peak utilization. So, if you find yourself working out in one of those areas during a slower, less occupied time of day, then the area may feel a bit cooler at that specific time.

However, if you are in a Yoga area or the aquatics area, then the temperature should be maintained at around 70 to 80 degrees that may feel a bit more comfortable to you. The cooler facility temperature is needed to help regulate our body’s temperature while it increases as it responds to exercise. Chances are the wellness center temperature is suitable for its general population.

I would suggest wearing a few lightweight layers, such as a sleeveless shirt under a short-sleeve shirt or layering a long-sleeve shirt over your usual attire. Your body will be more likely to heat up to a comfortable temperature during exercise and you can always peel off layers as you begin to feel warm.

For more information:

Go to the Exercise and Fitness health topic.