Headache after exercise!

[androbbob]

I have recently (as in 6-8 weeks ago) started doing a double class on a monday morning. It is a 50 min aerobic class and then a stretchy yoga / pilates class for the second half. It is all going well and I really enjoy it.

But I have now noticed a pattern - I always get a stonking headache on a Monday evening that lingers into Tuesday morning. What is causing it and how can I stop it happening (and I dont mean give up the classes!)?

I always have a breakfast beforehand - the class is 9.30 and my breakfast is usually eaten by 8am. I usually have porridge and a good drink of water. I have a full water bottle through the class and then also have plenty to drink throughout the day. I also eat lunch and tea - so not a food / hydration issue I think?

Anyone got any ideas why this happens and what I can do to prevent it? The classes are really good, and I do go to the gym twice a week as wel but have just made the connection between the headache and the classes. I will chat to the instructor next week as well as she is great.

I used to get really bad exertion headaches after exercise, but they've gone now my level of fitness has improved. I couldn't figure out how to make them go before they went by themselves (if you see what I mean). I tried drinking more water beforehand, eating beforehand, nothing helped. I just had to wait until I got more fit. You may just have to do the same! They are nasty though, really sore. I can sympathise

I get "hangovers" after martial arts training regularly and I've traced it to dehydration even though I drink a lot in class.

I now try and drink a glass of water before, drink during, and at a glass when I get home for good measure (although I usually have a tonic and lime - well it's an extra sugar boost too after all). Get far less headaches now.

Yes, it's dehydration and feels exactly like a hangover headache.

As you get more used to the exercise you will suffer less headaches, but in the meantime need to make sure you keep drinking. I read recently 2 litres on a "non-active" day, but 5 litres on an active day.

I found drinking more before the exercise helped - I'm naturally thirsty afterwards so drink plenty then, but it helps to be properly hydrated beforehand too.

Ok - I get it may be dehydration! I guess with it being an early morning class I may not be tanked up like you would be in the evening having been asleep all night. So I will try to have a least a litre before I go next week and do the same after, and see if there is any difference.