GR Triathlon combats heat exhaustion

ADA TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) - Triathletes felt the heat Sunday at the Grand Rapids Triathlon in Ada Township.

The race's medicine director Dr. Ed Kornealje said several racers complained of heat exhaustion.

Kornealje, of Metro Health Sports Medicine, said race organizers knew it would be warm, warned racers ahead of time and gave them the option to run a shorter race.

He also said volunteers were ready with double the amount of water and ice they originally expected to need.

He also provided some tips on how people who want to be active can deal with hot weather.

"If I have to get a run in, I make sure I take it very slow and stay very hydrated," said Kornealje. "We're trying to make sure we're hydrated -- the volunteers, the spectators and the runners. But if you don't have to be out in it, it's a good day to find some air conditioning."

Heat exhaustion can cause nausea and vomiting, frequent muscle cramps and dizziness.