Last week I got a very real reminder that our bodies always have the final say. After a long flight back home from taking our daughter to university I was on the plane and had probably a maximum of two cups of water along with the food offered on the plane.

Once I landed I jumped right back into my routine: a 5.45am client on the same day of arrival, a 6am class the next morning, a two-mile walk at 11.15 in the lovely August-style humidity, and teaching my evening circuit training class.

As the evening class concluded, I apparently thought I was superwoman because I then prepared my Hyrox-style workout for myself.

Just as I was over halfway through my workout, my body decided it was not on board with my all the things I decided to pursue.

First came the nausea, then the tingling in my hands. My fingers literally curled up and wouldn’t open.

Soon, I felt that same sensation running through my stomach, chest and face. It was like my body was falling asleep while I was wide awake.

I decided that this feeling would not go away and I needed additional help.

Cue the firemen and ambulance. (Yes, it got dramatic.)

Thankfully, after medical checks, rest, and replenishing with electrolytes, I started to feel like I was “returning to the earth”.

But the experience was a wake-up call: dehydration, heat and overexertion are a recipe for trouble, even for those of us that consider ourselves fit or fitness professionals.

Things learnt that day

• Hydration is not optional. Flights dehydrate you more than you realise. You loose about 1-2 litres of water while in flight. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty.

• Electrolytes matter. Water alone isn’t always enough — your body needs sodium, potassium, and magnesium to keep muscles and nerves functioning. If you are working out or just working in the heat, definitely add electrolytes.

• Respect recovery. Your body isn’t a machine even though I thought mine was. Travel, heat, and hard workouts pile stress on your system. Rest is a huge part of the programme.

• Listen early, not late. There is a saying that says, “listen to the whispers before they scream at you”. My body whispered (fatigue), then it nudged (tingling), and finally it screamed (ambulance). Next time, I plan to listen to the whispers.

I love to celebrate pushing through all life's major challenges, but sometimes the strongest move is taking a beat and pressing pause.

Take care of your body because it’s the only one that can carry us through the life we want to live.

A huge thanks to the Bermuda Fire Service and ambulance team for their quick response and care.

They reminded me that heroes don’t just show up in the gym — they show up in our community when we need them most.

And as for me? Let’s just say I may have to train a little bit longer for my next Hyrox race — but I’ll be doing it with more water, more electrolytes, and a whole lot more respect for recovery.

Stay Aware and B-Active For Life!

• Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook