The final thing you desire is to feel lightheaded and faint when you arise from that last burpee or complete your ultimate repetition when weightlifting. But what is happening when you confront these symptoms, and are they a cause for concern?

Here, four typical reasons you might be experiencing these unpleasant (and to some extent alarming!) side effects during or after exercise — and how to avert them, according to Jeffrey A. Morrison, M.D., founder of the Morrison Center in New York City.

You’re Parched

Getting the spins during your workout? Dehydration could be a culprit. If you find you’re not taking a single sip for your entire routine — or you weren’t drinking up in the hours before exercising — that could be your problem. The simple way to ensure you’re staying well hydrated is quite apparent: drink enough water, and drink it often.

You Have Reduced Blood Sugar

One of the primary reasons you may feel lightheaded both during and after exercise is due to reduced blood sugar, says Dr. Morrison. Your blood sugar levels dip and spike throughout the day based on the foods you consume, as well as how rapidly and effectively your body breaks them down.

To evade the dizzying effects of low blood sugar (weariness and headaches are among the diverse other symptoms), consume something that’s light enough for your stomach to handle and digest before exercise, but substantial enough to keep your blood sugar steady, suggests Dr. Morrison. Try half a serving of brown rice protein powder or pea protein powder mixed with 4 ounces of almond milk for a quick pick-me-up before a workout, he recommends. You may also consider reaching for a bottle of coconut water. It’ll keep you hydrated, and the natural sugars will make sure your blood sugar doesn’t drop.

You Have Low Blood Pressure

If you encounter sudden dizziness during a notably intense, weight-bearing workout such as running or cycling, low blood pressure could be responsible.

Generally, individuals who are slender, possess a swifter metabolic rate, and experience dizziness merely from being upright are more vulnerable to low blood pressure, according to Dr. Morrison. If this resonates with you, it is recommended to augment the levels of sea salt in your vegetable intake. In case the symptoms persist, it might be advisable to contemplate discussing with your physician about postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, a relatively obscure condition leading to recurring dizziness and palpitations.

What, precisely, is considered decreased blood pressure, and what is regarded as typical? You’re searching for a fit blood pressure reading as near to 120/80 as feasible, in accordance with the National Institutes of Health. Some define the decreased blood pressure benchmark as approximately 90/60, but what is deemed “decreased” for another person may not be “decreased” for you, so you should consult your doctor if you’re disturbed about your figures.

You’re Overlooking to Inhale

Your trainer or instructor is on to something when they instruct you to stomach breathe. “Everyone takes breathing for granted because it’s an automatic process,” says Dr. Morrison. “If your [breathing] isn’t synchronized with what you’re doing, you might not be allowing enough oxygen in and carbon dioxide out,” which can result in sudden wooziness, he adds. You may be holding your breath during isometric movements (such as planks and squat holds) or breathing heavily through your mouth during drills and sprints. Attempt to concentrate on your breath when exercising to prevent dizziness.

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