Complete Runner

Your Run Specialty Destination

  • Home
  • Schedule a Fitting
  • Gift Cards
  • Shop Footwear
    • Men’s Shoes
    • Women’s Shoes
  • Shop Accessories
  • About
    • Who we are
    • Running and Walking Shoes
    • Accessories
    • Apparel
    • Nutrition
    • Exercise Equipment
  • Employment
  • Contact
  • CRU
  • Race Calendar
  • Group Runs
  • Podcast

6 Tips for Running in the Heat

July 1, 2012 By Complete Runner

Running in the Heat

If you are fortunate enough to have air conditioning it is sometimes hard to leave your home or car when it is ninety plus degrees outside.  We know you would much rather sit in the cool air or by the pool with your favorite drink when the heat cranks up a notch but if you want to continue your training for the next race you have planned you need to figure out a way to safely run in the heat.  We’ve put together a list of six simple yet effective ways to run safely in the heat this summer.

Go Easy

In the same way that you are supposed to increase mileage at a slow rate to keep from injury, you shouldn’t expect to do your same speed work, distance, or intensity when the heat is extreme.  Don’t let your pride get in the way and be sure to cut your workout short if you aren’t feeling well in the heat.  Your body will tell you what it can and can’t do, so be smart not to overdo it.

Don’t Get Burned

Make sure to wear waterproof sunscreen so you don’t get a nasty sunburn, and if you have thin or no hair you may want to wear a hat to protect your head.  Remember, heat is released through your head so if you do wear a hat make sure to wear a running hat that is breathable and wicking.

Cross Train Indoors

If you have a membership to the gym or treadmill or bike in your house it may be more comfortable to cross train indoors than outside in the extreme heat.  Be flexible to change your plans based on the weather.

Run in the Morning or Evening

This seems to be common sense, but the earlier in the morning or later at night you can run the better to avoid extreme heat.  It is not advisable to run in the dark, but try to plan your running around the coolest parts of the day, especially your intense speed work.

Cotton is Rotten

Make sure you wear light colored, wicking apparel to keep you cooler when running in the heat.  Your cotton shirt and socks will get drenched in perspiration quickly, and will offer an extremely unpleasant experience for the rest of your run.  Wicking shirts and socks will pull the sweat away from your skin to keep you cool and comfortable.

Have a Hydration Plan

Quite possibly the most important part of running in the heat is making sure you are properly hydrated before, during, and after your run.  Be like a camel and start drinking early because you will sweat the most the first part of your run.  Instead of drinking plain water, try an enhanced electrolyte to replace all the minerals, sodium, and potassium you sweat out.  A water belt can be an extremely important piece of gear to keep your hydration close when on a long run.

Which of these has worked well for you?  Do you have any other tips for running in the heat?

Share this:

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Print

Filed Under: Tips Tagged With: running in heat

  • Schedule a Fitting
  • Calendar

What’s New on Instagram

completerunnerflint

completerunnerflint
New Balance was fire tonight! NB bringing the heat New Balance was fire tonight! NB bringing the heat, the FuelCell Rebel and 1080 where big hits. We even got a sneak peak on things coming down the pipeline! Huge thanks to Ally and Kate for coming out and letting us rock some shoes! #completerunnerflint #completerunnergb #werunflint #werungrandblanc #grouprun #runningwithfriends #makingstrides #michiganrunners #runnersofinstagram #instarunners
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Let’s Connect

  • Facebook
  • Google+
  • Instagram
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Sign Up to Our Email Newsletter

Sign Up Now

Search

One of the Most Innovative Running/Walking Stores in Michigan

There are many choices when it comes to buying running/walking shoes and gear. However, we don’t just sell running/walking shoes and gear; we offer an experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

Stop by our running/walking stores in Flint and Grand Blanc today to experience the Complete Runner difference.

Flint and Grand Blanc Location & Hours

Complete Runner Flint
915 South Dort Hwy
Flint, MI 48503
(810) 233-8851

        Monday 10am-7pm
       Tuesday 10am-7pm
       Wednesday 10am-7pm
      Thursday 10am-7pm
      Friday 10am-8pm
      Saturday 10am-6pm
      Sun- 11am-4pm

Complete Runner Grand Blanc
11303 S Saginaw St
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
(810) 603-7092

       Monday 10am-7pm
       Tuesday 10am-7pm
      Wednesday 10am-7pm
      Thursday 10am-7pm
      Friday 10am-8pm
     Saturday 10am-6pm
     Sun 11am-4pm

View Holiday Hours

Copyright © 2022 Complete Runner, 915 South Dort Hwy, Flint · 810-233-8851 · Privacy Policy · Log in