Being from Buffalo, NY and choosing to run a marathon in January, I had no choice but to learn to adapt to running in cold and snow since I hate the treadmill! And I will say for me, personally, I’ll take cold and snow anytime over running in hot summer weather. Over time I’ve learned tricks to make it more tolerable for me, though. Maybe some of these will help you!
1.) Run Early in the morning or Late in the evening
I’ve woken up at the crack of dawn, extra early in summer to get a run in when it’s more comfortable. I’ve always gone out and run late at night. I love running at this time. It’s peaceful and quiet. You get to wake up with the birds, or hear the crickets as the world gets ready to sleep. I will say when I run in dark, I stay near home, run on sidewalks and wear bright clothing. Safety measures are a must!
Here are some pictures I’ve taken while running really early and at sundown.
2.) Strip Down
No lie. When it’s sweltering I understand why nude 5k’s exists. Not that I’d do one. (I wouldn’t traumatize people like that.) But I’ve learned to wear minimal, moisture wicking clothes that help keep me cool as possible. I will even run in just sports bra and shorts when doing those early morning or night runs because no one is around to see. DOUBLE BONUS!
3.) Hydrate!!
When I know I’ll be running I try to hydrate extra day prior, morning of, during and after. Finding water during long runs can be tough. I’ve planned routes that goes near golf course, high school track, and a park with water fountains. I’ve also planned routes running past my mom’s (she’s leaves me bottle on porch) and one desperate day I wasn’t prepared stopped at dunkin doughnuts and begged for water promising to come back and buy doughnut. (I earned it that day.)
4.) Salt Supplements
A friend of mine gave me some of these before a hot humid evening race. I thought I’d try and was surprised how amazing I felt. So now I really try and take these before longer hot runs. These are the ones I purchased at Fleet Feet.
5.) Cool off before, during and after!
You make think I’m crazy for this one but I will take ice cold shower and quickly get dressed BEFORE my run. Hey, whatever works. Run through the sprinklers on your street! Run in rain! I will also admit my family has seen me sprinted up driveway, kicking off shoes, ripping off headphones, putting down phone and jumping in pool with all my clothes on. Water can be your best friend on a hot day.
As much as I love summer, I struggle when it comes to running in the heat. And these are a few ways I manage to get out there when I’d rather not!
I plan on putting some of your tips to work this summer. Thanks!!