Has the summer heat derailed your running goals? Good news, the forecast shows a break from the high 90’s we’ve been having for the past several weeks. Still, learning to embrace the heat rather than hiding on the basement sofa will help you keep running when the high temps return. Here are some tips to practice when the mercury rises:
Run by effort not by pace – Instead of strictly following pace targets that you might normally follow, try running by how you feel rather than distance or pace.
Don’t wear dark colors or cotton – Gear matters in extreme conditions so dress appropriately. Look for synthetic fabrics like polyester or wool to keep you dry and cool.
Start your run hydrated (and keep hydrating). It’s important to hydrate well before, during and after your run. Unless you’re running more than 60 minutes, you probably don’t need to take any water with you, but learn what works for you.
Get off the roads – Asphalt and concrete absorb heat and radiate it back onto your poor, wilting body. The summer months are a good time to explore the amazing trails all over northern Colorado.
With all the whining we do about summer training, it actually makes you a better runner. Running in the heat causes our body to acclimatize to the conditions and adapt. These adaptations improve your efficiency and make you ready to run even faster as soon as the heat drops in the fall. So embrace the heat and run through it!