WWH&FD

[libbygrl109]

So I have a dilemma. My training plan has me going 3 mi today, but it's currently 86* with a whole lot of humidity and sunny. I have a race on Saturday morning. Should I a) suck it up and run now b) run in a few hours, though I run the risk of not sleeping too well because I ran too late or c) run tomorrow morning. I have no clue how to handle heat.

[trigal]

I would run as planned. Pre-hydrate and bring water along and go easier than usual. The only way to train your body to run in the heat and humidity is to run in the heat and humidity. And when you have a race where it is hot and humid, you will be ready!

As my husband/coach says, you can't pick your weather on race day! But, you can be prepared for it!

[runaways]

I would suck it up. Just go slower if you need to and hydrate well.

[Susie]

I'd use it as an opportunity to practice running in the heat. I'm guessing which race you're doing, and it's been really hot & sunny when I've done it in the past! Lots of water afterwards.

[2doxies]

May 30, 2013 15:28:29 GMT -5 trigal said:

I would run as planned. Pre-hydrate and bring water along and go easier than usual. The only way to train your body to run in the heat and humidity is to run in the heat and humidity. And when you have a race where it is hot and humid, you will be ready!

As my husband/coach says, you can't pick your weather on race day! But, you can be prepared for it!

Agreed - give it a try in the heat and see how it goes.

[grk2012]

Run. You can't always reschedule because of heat. Wear sunscreen, a hat or headband for wicking sweat away from your eyes, carry water, and notch your speed back a bit. Don't expect your usual pace or you'll be disappointed.

[cinco]

I think you can do any of those, really. It won't mess up your race. I don't mind running in the heat, but it is b/c I am fine with slowing down the pace. no shame in it

[libbygrl109]

Thanks, all. I did suck it up, and it sucked, but at least it's done. At least I have all summer to get used to this, so maybe it won't be so bad eventually.

[runaways]

May 30, 2013 16:53:59 GMT -5 libbygrl109 said:

Thanks, all. I did suck it up, and it sucked, but at least it's done. At least I have all summer to get used to this, so maybe it won't be so bad eventually.

It does get better, I promise! Not all the way better, but definitely less miserable. And it really pays off when things cool down again.

[archaeominx]

I agree with everything TriGirl posted. Sure it sucks to run in it but if you only run in perfect weather, you'll be screwed if it isn't perfect on race day.

[trigal]

May 30, 2013 16:53:59 GMT -5 libbygrl109 said:

Thanks, all. I did suck it up, and it sucked, but at least it's done. At least I have all summer to get used to this, so maybe it won't be so bad eventually.

Good for you! You do start to get used to it.

[shauni27]

I had the same dilemma last night. But I ended up running (it was also 88 and HUMID) and I was glad I did. I felt like I ran strong even though at the end I was totally exhausted. It is just the start of summer--we need to get used to it!

[enfuego23]

I ran yesterday in 88 degree heat and high humidity and I just stopped for water more often and slowed down. The slower pace sucks but I'm getting used to the fact that the hotter it is, the slower I need to go.