Summer Running: Feelin' Hot Hot Hot

After a questionable spring, I am SO eager for summer running!

I know, I know....I'm kind of alone in a corner on this one, but I prefer the heated (albeit frequently humid) temps of summer.

Most of us can feel the heat of the temps and the humidity in the air as we crank up the power of our air conditioners. Even though I have access to a treadmill (my gal, 'Milly), I seldom ever spend any time with her in the summer. She's even positioned directly below an air vent, none the less.

For me, a treadmill run is difficult. I have long legs (I'm 5'9), and my strides are lengthy because of those long legs. I have never actually stubbed my toes on the 'mill, but I have come close. I'm also quite klutzy, so if I were to stub my toes, I would probably face plant rather quickly (and most ungracefully). As a result, my form/gait/stride length are all compromised when I run on the treadmill. A treadmill run, for me, never simulates a "real" run because I cannot run in the usual manner. Is it any wonder I tend to almost always feel injured (in some capacity) after a run on the 'mill?

I figure, if I'm gonna get just as sweaty running inside, I might as well just do the run outside and actually have some scenery to enjoy. Besides, the whole robotic, repetitious, running-in-place thing is totally not my gig (#boring).

It's a given, I much prefer to run outside, and I think everyone can learn to like it (maybe even love it, eventually). Here's a few things to consider in making YOUR outside summer run enjoyable:

First and foremost, have realistic expectations. The heat (and, especially, the humidity) can and will do a number on you. You may have to run a bit slower than usual, and possibly you may not be able to go as far. That's alright. Not every run needs to be at your fastest pace. Why not just run simply because you CAN?

Get outside and enjoy the sunshine!

Do as I do, run early. It's no secret I LOVE my #5at5 runs (more info HERE). Granted, the temps may already be warm before the sun has risen, but the air will probably be at its coolest of the day. I have headed out as early as 4:00 or 4:30 on occasion. It may still be dark, but it will not be dark for long. I already have noticeable daylight when I leave the house at 5:00, and the sun rises shortly thereafter.

A lot of my runs begin in the dark, and end in the sunshine

Another option is to consider running late. Have you ever run in the evening? Running in the dark doesn't have to be scary (tips for running in the dark HERE). Even though the air may still be warm, chances are it will have cooled off substantially after the sun has set. It's actually quite calm, still, and tranquil being outside, just you and the bugs buzzing and crickets chirping.

Running under the stars...

You may want to bring along some hydration (or circle back to your house). There are many options for carrying water (handheld bottles, hydration packs, fuel belts, etc.). Another option is to place water bottles along your route, or plan your route around a park with drinking fountains.

Have water, will run

Last of all, keep your eyes on the prize...fall racing! Yes, you can train on a treadmill, but I can guarantee you will not have a race happening on one. It's in your best interest to do some of your training outside...on uneven terrain, in the wind, during the rain, and under the heat of the sun. Those all are potential conditions you may face on race day; you're cheating yourself if you don't have some practice runs in them prior to the start line. And, if you train in hot and (occasionally) miserable conditions of summer, the cooler weather of fall will have you running with ease.

Training in the heat = easy running in the cooler weather

It should go without saying, common sense is paramount. If you're having difficulty breathing, feeling light-headed, or notice a sudden case of the chills...STOP. You do not need to be a hero. There is no shame in walking (it usually will help you cool down because it's less strenuous than running). It's always a good idea to run with a buddy, or have your phone with you in case you need assistance.

How do you feel about summer running, Yay or No Way? What's the earliest (or latest) you have gone for a run to avoid the heat? Have you ever trained exclusively outside through the summer?

                         I'm linking this with Meranda and Lacey and Rachel for the Friday Five 2.0. 

And also with Nicole for the Fit & Fashionable Friday link-up

And, since it's the first weekend of the month, I'm also linking with Deborah and Coco for the Ultimate Coffee Date