With temperatures soaring in Bath lately, my training has
taken on the new challenge of how to keep cool, particularly while out running
in the sun.
Last week I had the opportunity to watch three of my friends
compete in Ironman Lanzarote where temperatures reached the high 30s at 4pm in
the afternoon, about the time they were beginning their marathon run. I was
struggling to stand at the side of the road and cheer them on, so how they
managed to run in those conditions was very impressive. It was a truly tough race
with tough winds and searing heat sapping the energy of the athletes, but it
was one that I gained some useful insight into how to prepare for hot
conditions.
It may sound obvious, but applying plenty sun cream is
important, particularly on the back of the neck which can become exposed. Also,
using a cotton hat that you can soak in water and use to cool off your head is
also a good tip. Reduce your pace and run in the shade if you can find any, or
run earlier or later in the day when it should be cooler and more bearable.
While it is important to take on water while you are out
running in the heat, be careful you don’t over-hydrate or you can end up
feeling like you have a bloated tummy sloshing with water. You really need to
take little sips regularly but not necessarily lots of additional water to keep
you hydrated.
I really find acclimatising to the heat pretty tough to do.
I am much more at home in the drizzle. That said, a run in the evening sun is
lovely. And if you can’t run then just have a nice walk in the sun, it will do
you the world of good.
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