Emergency physician Dr. Gérald Kierzek said practicing sports during the current heatwave in France is dangerous and irresponsible [1].

This warning comes as extreme temperatures stress the human body's ability to regulate heat, increasing the likelihood of medical emergencies that can overwhelm healthcare systems. The risks are particularly acute for those exercising in metropolitan areas like Paris [1].

According to Kierzek, the human body does not tolerate physical effort well when ambient temperatures exceed specific tolerance thresholds [1]. Engaging in high-intensity activity under these conditions increases the risk of hyperthermia, a condition where the body overheats, and general exhaustion [1].

Beyond heatstroke, Kierzek said such activity elevates the risk of cardiovascular incidents [1]. The strain of exercising in extreme heat forces the heart to work harder to cool the body, which can lead to critical failures in individuals with underlying conditions or those pushing their physical limits.

Some athletes attempt to mitigate these risks by running at dawn or late in the evening. However, Kierzek said this is a false good idea [1]. Even during these hours, the residual heat and humidity can keep the body's core temperature dangerously high, maintaining the risk of collapse.

Medical professionals urge citizens to prioritize hydration and avoid strenuous outdoor activity until temperatures drop to safer levels [1]. The focus remains on preventing avoidable emergency room visits during the peak of the summer heat [1].

“Faire du sport pendant la canicule ? "Dangereux et irresponsable"”

The warning highlights a growing public health challenge as heatwaves become more frequent in Europe. By labeling outdoor exercise as 'irresponsible,' medical professionals are attempting to shift the cultural perception of 'pushing through' the heat, emphasizing that physiological limits are absolute regardless of an athlete's fitness level.