

OSF Healthcare

“Many people look to hunting as a way to relax and commune with nature and if you’re healthy and in good physical shape, it can be a great way to get some outdoor exercise. However, for many hunters, the extra exertion, colder temperatures and even the excitement of the hunt can add up to a deadly combination,” said Gustavo E. Flores, M.D., a member of the American Heart Association’s Emergency Cardiovascular Care committee and chairman and chief instructor for Emergency & Critical Care Trainings, LLC, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. “Unfortunately, every year some hunters experience heart attacks or strokes while in the woods, so it’s important to recognize symptoms and to be able to take quick action.”
According to Flores, developing an exercise regimen and getting a good health check-up prior to hunting season would be idea. However, many hunters may not think ahead to prepare physically for the exertion hunting can have on the body – especially the heart. The colder temperatures of hunting season can cause blood vessels to constrict. Tracking prey may mean lots of walking or running, often in hilly terrain. The excitement of seeing and connecting with a target can release hormones that can increase blood pressure to cause the heart rate to spike. Then the labor of dragging an animal through the woods can leave even the most fit hunter breathless.
“Heart attacks and strokes can happen even to people who seem in good physical shape,” Flores said. “Listen to your body, take breaks if needed and have a plan in case of emergencies. Never hunt alone if possible and if cell phone service isn’t available, use walkie-talkies to stay in touch with your hunting party. Recognizing the warnings signs and seeking immediate help are key.”
Some heart attacks are sudden and intense. But most start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Pay attention to your body and call 911 if you experience:
Use the letters in F.A.S.T to spot a stroke
Getting a person to the hospital quickly during a heart attack or stroke is critical to ensure they get medication and treatment to save their life. If calling 9-1-1 isn’t an option in the woods, it can also help to know in advance where the closest hospital is to the hunting area.
Cardiac arrest differs from a heart attack because the heart suddenly stops beating, often without any warning. Signs of a cardiac arrest are:
In the event of a cardiac arrest, seconds count. Call 9-1-1, begin CPR immediately and continue until professional emergency medical services arrive.
“Learning hands-only CPR is one of the best skills any hunter can have. The American Heart Association offers many local CPR classes, and even if you haven’t taken a formal class, you can still save a life. It’s two simple steps – call 9-1-1 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest,” Flores said. “While hunting can be a very strenuous activity, taking a few precautions and being prepared can make a difference in the safety of the experience.”
Golfing can provide benefits such as stress reduction and regular exercise. Due to its social nature and typically slower, controlled pace, people of most all ages and physical fitness levels can play the sport.
For the study on golfing, researchers from the University of Missouri in Columbia, analyzed data from the Cardiovascular Health Study, a population-based observational study of risk factors for heart disease and stroke in adults 65 and older. Out of nearly, 5,900 participants, average age 72, researchers identified nearly 400 regular golfers. During the 10-year follow-up period, death rates for golfers were significantly lower than for non-golfers.[1]
A comprehensive review of research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine analyzed more than 300 scientific studies, leading a panel of 25 public health experts to issue an international consensus statement, from several sporting and golf organizations, noting the health and social benefits of golf.
"The American Heart Association recommends most people get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week. Golfing qualifies as a moderate-intensity exercise, specifically if you are walking an 18-hole course, carrying your golf clubs," said Lloyd-Jones. "While golfing, you’re increasing your heart rate and blood flow, enhancing brain stimulation, improving your balance and socializing. Even if you are riding in a cart and playing a short course of only 9 holes, you’re still being physically active, and we know any movement is better than none."
There are a few safety measures to take into consideration before hitting the greens. Before you start, warm up with a few stretching exercises and be sure to wear sunscreen even on cloudy days. Also, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and don’t get overheated. Be aware of the signs of a heat stroke and if you or your fellow golfers show any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 and seek emergency medical help right away: