{"id":907,"date":"2018-07-08T12:00:26","date_gmt":"2018-07-08T11:00:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.raceatyourpace.co.uk\/?p=907"},"modified":"2018-07-08T12:00:26","modified_gmt":"2018-07-08T11:00:26","slug":"how-to-train-in-hot-weather","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.raceatyourpace.co.uk\/how-to-train-in-hot-weather\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Train in Hot Weather"},"content":{"rendered":"

Hot and humid days makes running much more challenging. It\u2019s impossible for the body to perform as well as usual in sweltering temperatures and humidity levels, and can make even a short run feel like a marathon.<\/p>\n

Research has heavily suggested that running in the heat is an extremely worthwhile workout, so you shouldn\u2019t stop training just because it feels too hot. Training in the warm weather encourages your body to sweat more (which keeps you cool), increase your blood-plasma volume (which benefits cardiovascular fitness), and lower your core body temperature – all of which are incredibly beneficial and help you to perform better in any weather.<\/p>\n

However, it\u2019s important to bear in mind that exercising in the heat can put you at risk of dehydration, heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses. Common sense is key to avoiding these problems, but below we\u2019ve answered some frequently asked questions and explained our top tips for running in the hot conditions.<\/p>\n

When to Run in the Heat<\/h2>\n

Try to run during the coolest parts of the day, which is usually just before sunrise. The middle of the day, particularly between 10am and 4pm is when the sun\u2019s intensity is at its greatest and is therefore the hottest temperature. If morning runs aren\u2019t possible, try to stick to shady roads or paths.<\/p>\n

Lower your Expectations<\/h2>\n

Remember that your body cannot perform to its usual levels in the blistering heat, so rather than attempting to run a distance, run for a set period of time. For example, if you usually run 12 miles in 2 hours, instead just run for 2 hours but at the same effort level as you\u2019d normally train at. You probably won\u2019t run as far, but you need to adapt your workout to the environment you\u2019re training in.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re taking part in a virtual challenge<\/a>, don\u2019t panic about not covering as many miles as you usually do – remember you have the entire month to complete the challenge.<\/p>\n

If it\u2019s particularly humid on a race day, scale back your performance goals – hot conditions aren\u2019t the time to push your pace and try to achieve a PR.<\/p>\n

Another idea is to focus on place instead of time. If you know that you\u2019re in the top 20 in a given race, don\u2019t stress too much about your time, just concentrate on finishing in the to 20.<\/p>\n

Stay Hydrated<\/h2>\n

The most effective way of preventing heat disorders is to keep your body hydrated. Sweat is composed of plasma from your blood, and sweating can decrease your blood volume, which is why adequate hydration is critical in hot weather. You lose electrolytes in your sweat, so consuming water and a sports drink or taking an electrolyte supplement is essential. You should be drinking water before, during and after exercise.<\/p>\n

Running Clothes for Hot Weather<\/h2>\n

Wear loose fitting, light-coloured synthetic fabrics (not cotton) that absorbs sweat and dries quickly \u2013 it\u2019ll help your body to breathe and cool itself naturally through evaporation. Wearing darker clothes will absorb the sun\u2019s light and heat, and tighter clothes will restrict the cooling process as well as become uncomfortable.<\/p>\n

Where to Run in the Heat<\/h2>\n

During the warmer temperatures, you should plan your route to make sure most of your run is in a shady area. Swap heat-radiating roads for grass, and make sure you have plenty of water available on your route.<\/p>\n

We advise running loops around a shady field or large areas not too distant from your house. This way, if the heat becomes too much for you, you can stop at any time and head home.<\/p>\n

Wear Sunscreen<\/h2>\n

It\u2019s vital that you apply sunscreen whenever you are spending time in the sun, and running is no exception. Protect your skin with waterproof sunscreen that offers broad spectrum protection, protecting you from both UVA and UVB rays. If you\u2019re running for longer periods of time, be prepared to re-apply when necessary.<\/p>\n

Not only is sunburn detrimental to your skin, but it will also restrict your body\u2019s rate of cooling as injured skin loses its ability to sweat.<\/p>\n

Change Plans<\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re really struggling to run in the hot weather, don\u2019t be afraid to change plans and try something else out. For instance, attend a spin class or go swimming. As long as you keep up some form of exercise, you\u2019ll maintain a level of fitness and be able to ease back into your normal regime when the days start to become more bearable.<\/p>\n

Be Careful & Consult a Specialist<\/h2>\n

Don\u2019t overdo it and avoid pushing yourself too much. If any signs of heat problems occur, such as starting to feel faint, dizzy or disorientated, stop running, sit in the shade and get some water on board.<\/p>\n

If at any time you\u2019re particularly concerned, make sure you consult a specialist health professional.<\/p>\n

Fitness Challenges with Race at your Pace<\/h2>\n

Here at Race at your Pace<\/a>, we\u2019re passionate about getting people outdoors and into fitness. We organise a variety of virtual challenges<\/a> every month, and they\u2019re a great way for people of all ages and abilities to keep active. It doesn\u2019t matter if you are an elite athlete, or are just getting into fitness, we have a challenge for you!<\/p>\n

View our Running Virtual Challenges<\/a><\/p>\n

View our Kids Virtual Challenges<\/a><\/p>\n

View our Cycling Virtual Challenges<\/a><\/p>\n

See more: Motivation Tips for Running<\/a><\/p>\n

See more: Running on Holiday \u2013 How to Keep Fit on Holiday<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Hot and humid days makes running much more challenging. It\u2019s […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":909,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nHow to Train in Hot Weather | Tips for Running in the Heat | Race at your Pace<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Running in the hot and humid temperatures can be tricky and put you at risk of becoming dehydrated. 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