Hot Temps Make Me Lazy

It was so hot today.  Running in these hot, humid, why-do-I-like-summer days can be a ridiculous chore.  In fact, indoor chores sound great compared to sweating my body weight outdoors.  However, weather (as of yet) can not be controlled, which means runners need to be prepared to compete in all kinds of conditions – even conditions similar to the surface of the sun.  Here are some tips:

• No Motivation?  No, problem!  Ease into hot-weather running.  Do your workouts before 10a.m or after 6p.m.
• Stay Hydrated!  Here are some tips on hydration.
• Don’t Be Hot-Headed.  To stay cool during a run, dump water over your head.  This helps drop your core body temperature.
• Nighty, Night.  Summer means additional hours of sunlight.  This can actually effect your sleeping pattern (that, and not having to get up for school, too).  A little sleep-deprivation can make a normal run seem harder. 
• Sweat Stinks!  Supersweaty workouts and runs can have big effects on your hydration.  Replenish your fluids, and don’t forget about lost salt and other electrolytes lost through sweat!

Be Aware of Heat Ailments

• Heat Cramps – Symptoms: Spasms in the abdomen, arms, calves, or hamstrings.  Treatment: Stop running for the day, sip fluids, gently massage the cramp. 
• Heat Exhaustion - Symptoms: Heavy sweating, headache, dizziness, nausea.  Treatment: Stop running for the day, get inside (or shade), sip fluid, see a doctor if symptoms continue.
• Heat Stroke – Symptoms: Confusion, rapid breathing, fainting, cessation of sweating.  Treatment: Stop running, call for emergency help, get inside (or shade), cool skin with water.

In summary, use your common sense and error on the side of caution!

Bibliography:

Dreher, B.  (August 2010).  Heat advisory: Feeling sweaty, sneezy and in no mood to run?  How to get moving when you’d rather not.  Runner’s World, 48-49.

 

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