That's Fit

Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answer. Our ThatsFit.com fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose two per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Hi Fitz, Why is that we feel like puking or vomiting during intense workouts? Is it a bad indication or health threat? I saw on the Biggest Loser that there were those who puked. However, I felt it just recently on my 20 minute incline treadmill workout and it gave me the creeps. Did I do something wrong? Am I supposed to have myself checked with a doctor? Thanks, Kassy

A. Hi Kassy. Thanks for the great question. There are a bunch of possible causes for your nausea, and most are not worthy of worry. Vigorous exercise takes it's toll on all the different parts of our body; not just our legs, arms and abs. It effects our respiratory, cardiovascular, nervous, and digestive systems (amongst others) as well. Most of the effects of challenging exercise are great, some of the effects though are temporarily not-so-great. I found a study by Dr. R. Rafoth, M.D., The Athlete and the G.I. Tract which describes the causes of exercise induced nausea and other G.I. symptoms which I summarize below.

Some of the factors that can lead to exercise induced nausea are:

1. Presence of symptoms in a non exercising period, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

2. Age. More symptoms occur in younger athletes.

3. Gender: Women are more likely to experience exercised induced nausea, completely unrelated to ones menstrual cycle.

4. Diet: There is an increased incidence of upper abdominal symptoms in athletes who consumed:

• too big a meal too close to exercise
• fats
• hyper-tonic drinks, glucose syrups, honey/maple syrups
• foods high in dietary fiber
• high protein diets

5. Training level: Less trained athletes experienced greater symptoms.

6. Intensity of training: More symptoms appear during periods of severe exertion, or during periods of rapidly increasing training mileage.

7. Mode of exercise: Symptoms appear more often in running than cycling.

8. Duration: Symptoms are more common the longer the event.

9. Hydration: A four percent weight loss due to dehydration will increase symptoms.

10. Non-dietary substances can increase symptoms: caffeine, herb extracts, salt tablets.

The gist is this. While you exercise, lots of things happen to your digestive system. It may become: a little dehydrated, irritated because you ate too much or too little too close to your workout, jostled, bounced and stretched too much, or worked really hard. As an athlete, I've experienced nausea and other G.I. issues because of training intensely, food consumption, and nerves. It's both common and annoying. I would recommend you look at the list above and think about what factors may be affecting you. Change things up and see if you have any improvement.

I am not a doctor Kassy, but Exercise Induced Nausea is a very common issue. If you believe something else is happening with you ....go see one! It never hurts to double check. Right? Let me know how it goes. Fitz

Q. Help Fitz! I'm trying to lose about 35 pounds, and have decided to join the running group here at my office. I think I'd do O.K. running, but I can't handle my chest! It's huge now, and the bouncing is just killing me. I bought a long-tank style workout top, but it is just not cutting it. Plus, I feel really self-conscious about guys looking at me. What do I do? Are my boobs just too big for me to run? Wendy

A. Big boobs are not all that fantastic are they Wendy? There are certain benefits that come along with a buxom bust I suppose, but for the most part.......too-big boobies are a pain in the neck! And back, and shoulders, and more. I'm not a flat chested lady either and with all of my athletic adventures....you better believe I've sought out some very functional sports bras.

The long tank you're describing with the shelf bra inside is not designed for us girls who actually need support. That tank should go over a real supportive sports bra instead. What you're searching for in a sports bra is one that offers support, breath-ability, moisture control, and comfort. If you wear a D cup or greater, I would recommend an encapsulation bra. This type of bra surrounds and supports each breast individually. Isn't that fancy? Encapsulation will also prevent the twins from smashing together as you run and causing excessive sweating.

I'm not a slave to any particular brand. Go to a sports store, Target, Macy's, or anywhere else they sell sports bras. You'll never know which bra is going to work for you until you try a bunch on. When you do get in the dressing room to try the bras on, make sure the bra covers you well and that you feel comfortable. Then jump around! Do some jumping jacks and jog in place. That's the only way you'll know for sure if you're bounce is beaten.

And at last, if you feel like one bra still doesn't make you feel comfy enough to run with your office mates, wear two. Lots of women do. The only recommendation I would make if you try this, is to vary your straps. Wear a t-back bra with a shoulder strap bra. That way you'll disperse the pressure on your shoulders and neck.

Running is one of my favorite exercises Wendy, and it surely is a massive calorie burner. I'm confident you'll be able to find a bra that suits your needs and gets you going. And as a bonus, when you lose those 35 pounds you're chest will become lighter as well. This sports bra endeavor will become less difficult in the future. Keep me posted on your progress!

** Here's a handy article I found describing various sports bras.

Punches & Kicks,

Fitz

Fitzness.com

Note: The content presented in this Q. & A section is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as medical advice or substitute for professional medical care.