Summer is here and it is starting to get H.O.T. We are runners (and that just means we are hardcore in the first place) and so we keep running year round:) Here are some of my tips to help you enjoy your runs over the next few hot months!
–Allow yourself time to acclimate to the hotter temperatures. We are good about letting our bodies adjust to more mileage and more speedwork and so we also need to allow ourselves time to adjust to the temperatures. Expecting our bodies to be able to just jump right into summer running is silly. With each hot run that you do, you are one step closer to feeling more comfortable in the heat! Be patient with your body. It takes about 2 weeks for your body to adjust to the heat.
–Wear the right stuff. The lighter the better in my opinion. Less is more. Finding breathable and light colored running clothes to run in during the summer months saves me from dying. Here are some great running white tanks that I am eyeing for this summer—> HERE, HERE and HERE.
–Adjust your expectations. Judge your runs according to your effort level rather than your pace when the temperatures are extra hot. Working your body just as hard in the heat as in cooler temperatures will most likely equate to a different pace. This may mean adding 10 seconds per mile to your goal pace or cutting your speed work down a bit. Learn how the heat affects your running and adjust accordingly.
“At 60-75 degrees, heart rate increases by two to four beats per minute. From 75 to 90 degrees, heart rate increases up to 10 beats per minute, and humidity increases it even more. Perceived effort is accordingly much greater as both the temperature and the humidity rise.” (source)
–Wear a hat or visor. This will help to keep the sun off of your face. I am a big fan of white hats because they feel a lot cooler than dark ones. I am loving THIS ONE.
-Invest in some good sunglasses. I have been wearing my Oakley Commits for 5 or 6 years now and I still love them. They keep me from squinting my entire run and they do not fog up or bounce around. I can’t imagine running in the sun without a hat or sunglasses to protect my eyes.
–Take some time to plan your route. Do your research and find a route that includes some shade and as many water fountains as possible. You could also plan it around your favorite gas stations and bring some cash to get a gatorade:) Bring water with you if you don’t mind carrying it! When I was pregnant (below… this was about a month before I had Brooke) and running, I ALWAYS carried water with me when it was warm out. I also wore like 15 sports bras during this time of life.
Start drinking early in your run (long before you start feeling thirsty) and stay on top of hydrating yourself.
–Get up early to beat the heat as much as you can. When your alarm clock goes off and you don’t want to get out of bed just think about how getting up and doing it will save you from sweating to death. That is what I do and it helps me to jump out of bed and get out there fast to avoid the heat.
–Be prepared to sweat more which will mean you will probably chafe more. Before an extra hot run outside I make sure to put on some body glide on my ‘most likely to chafe’ areas before heading out.
-Remember that tough conditions just make us stronger. It’s when we complete a tough run in less than ideal conditions that we grow stronger physically and mentally. Try to avoid extreme conditions, sometimes it is just too hot and the treadmill will be your best friend!
-Wear sunblock!!! Gotta protect that skin of yours and instead just use sunless tanners if you want to be tan like this one, this one or this one!
-Try to run by the ocean whenever possible because it is just the best place to run. But really, running by the ocean/rivers/lakes usually means cooler temperatures.
**** I have zero advice/tips for running in the humidity. Those of you that kill your runs in the humidity are my heroes and if you have tips for dealing with humidity then please share them in the comments!
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And now for your daily dose of randomness:
-Brooke’s little curls just make me really happy.
–Megan’s bootcamp worked me real good last night like usual. Brooke spent the class learning how to master balancing on the medicine ball.
-A better angle of her amazingness:
-Our popsicle streak is still going strong.
-It was Monday night last night so of course I got sucked into watching the Bachelor. That show drives me crazy but I can’t stop.
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Who has some tips for running in humidity? What are your tips for running in the heat?
Who watched Bachelor last night? Thoughts?
Would you rather run in the freezing temperatures or the really hot temperatures?
Do you carry water with you or rely on water fountains?
97 comments
Michele @ paleorunningmomma
Time to acclimate and adjusting expectations are so important in the summer heat! Otherwise you’ll put unrealistic pressure on yourself and lose the enjoyment. I’m not a fan of heat but when I just go with how I feel it makes training a much better experience! I also carry a hydration pack for long runs and figure the extra weight will only make me faster without it.
Meghan@ GetOffYourButtAndRun
Tips for running in humidity? Don’t do it. ;) I don’t know how people can handle it.
I have water fountains on my route that I stop at.
Flower
I run in Florida and in the humid conditions of summer I like to run with a cooling towel. It helps a little or at least I like to think it does. I also put ice in the pockets of my running shorts. Sounds a little crazy but I promise by the time it starts to melt, I’m grateful. :)
Elena
When I did a triathlon in Puerto Rico last year it was SO hot by the time I started running I put ice in my sports bra – similar to your pocket trick :) I also put it under my white baseball cap!
Hollie
On the East Coast it seems we have gone from really cold weather to really hot. It’s been hard to acclimate too! I think the best advice I got was to just relax and not worry about pace. It’s better to focus on exertion level versus pace. Enjoy your summer running Janae!
Erica {[email protected]}
Wrap up some ice cubes in a bandana and tie it around your neck. It will melt within the first 5 minutes but running in damn clothes (with lots of body glide) makes the humidity so much easier to handle!
Sarah @ SarahRuns26
I save the Bachelor for my long runs so I won’t see it until this weekend. I completely agree though – its nuts but I can’t seem to stop watching it. Trainwreck.
I would hands down rather run in freezing temps than hot. Though it does make it harder for me to get out of bed when its cold outside! I usually fill my water bottle half full and freeze it, then before I go out fill the rest with water. My water stays cooler longer that way! A humid day here is like 30% so I’m amazed by those that are running in 90% humidity! Wow!
Lisa @ Running Out Of Wine
As much as I complain about the heat and humidity, I think I prefer it to freezing cold and windy runs. The heat definitely slows me down, but I don’t necessarily mind being out in it. I think that a lot of the same tips apply for running in humidity. I just try to stay hydrated and run early in the morning before it gets too hot. There aren’t many water fountains where I run, so once it gets really hot I’ll start carrying my water with me again.
Gretchen | Gretchruns
Great tips! It started getting hot in Pittsburgh last month and most of my runs have been in the 80s with high humidity since then. Once I do about 5 runs in that weather I’m acclimated, but before then I take it really easy. I also bring water with me and try to run on trails more- not only is it more fun but also it’s like nature’s air conditioning!
Loving the Bachelorette this year so far..Kaitlin is my favorite but some of the guys are just…ick.
Karien @ Running the Race
Great tips, thanks, Janae!
Natalie
I run in the humidity for much of the year in Texas. It can be brutal. Honestly, sometimes it’s more humid the earlier you go, but then if you wait too late, it’s way too hot. My only tip is to have a huge cold bottle of water waiting for you at the end. Oh, and ALWAYS run through sprinklers. :)
I would rather race in cooler temperatures, but I honestly don’t mind training in the heat. I HATE the cold.
I don’t carry water, but I like to have some in my car or at home as soon as I finish. I love the carrying money for Gatorade idea!
Kristine
I watched last night. I can’t tell if the guy scandal is just totally fake or not – we shall see! She definitely has some crazy guys to choose from. Both of the Ben’s would be my picks.
Brandy
I live in Alabama & the humidity is killer! I just tell myself that my pace is going to suffer & not worry about it. :). I end up taking 3 showers a day most of the time in summer.
Will @ TeelFit
-I have no humidity tips either. I live in the dryest city on earth ;) for heat, I agree with running early. I like to avoid the high temps altogether!
-I would rather run in freezing temps, you can always put on more layers!!
-I never carry water while I run since I already carry my phone. I rely on fountains :)
Jamie
Running in humidity is pretty similar to running in heat – the earlier the better, and to always bring water. I tend t find I overheat a lot more in humidity (less sweat evaporation) so I usually intentionally focus on slowing my pace down. In the summer I usually carry water with me because nothing is worse than wanting water and not having it! Thanks for all the great tips!
Sally @ sweat out the small stuff
I live in swampy New York City where we get pummeled with humidity. My biggest advice is to accept defeat. It will make you suffer. But you can still log long runs. In August I am usually running 15-17 milers with friends training for the NYC marathon. We find places to stop for iced coffee. I discovered a local place that sells watermelon juice! It’s awesome. We also run past grocery stores to grab cold water or a piece of fruit and we take walk breaks. If I need to do a specific speed workout I will suck it up and go to the gym.
Caroline
Mmmm…I love watermelon juice! Its so good for you and great for recovery. Where do you get it? Juice Press? They are phenomenal –if you haven’t tried their products, do it (youll love me (because its so good) and hate me (because its so addicting))!!!
I don’t know if you’ve ever tried Nuun…but they make watermelon flavor. It’s not as thick or as sweet as watermelon juice, but makes a delicious enhancement to your water when you need to replace your electrolytes.
Jennifer @ JenChoosesJoy
I hydrate more and give myself a little grace. I run more for effort than pace.
I’d rather run in the cold.
I always carry a handheld in the summer!
Amy @ They May be Light
So after the workout do you guys head out to the lake on that boat? If so, I want to go to boot camp too!! (That may be the only way I can be convinced to seriously strength train.)
Humidity – you’re going to sweat a ton so up the water intake, even if it’s not that hot!
Jessica @ VEGGIE RUNNING MOMMA
The Bachlorette last night was… weird. The two guys at the end. Aughh.
But yea, agree with all your tips.! Even though I don’t really deal with too bad of heat living in Oregon. But my number one tip is to avoid it and run before the sun is up. Morning runs are the best
Donna Gallant
I live in Florida so it is almost always 98% humidity even when I run at 4:30 in the morning :( Lots of hydrating THE DAY BEFORE and carry a hand held water bottle, try to find a route that has a water fountain, on long runs, stash some sponges in a bucket of ice water … HEAVEN.COM… and just get comfortable being uncomfortable. Salt tablets are my friend too. :)
Laura @ This Runner's Recipes
Great post! I was suffering from running in the high 60s before we left the Midwest and I’m glad to know it wasn’t just in my head. I’d rather run in freezing temperatures than high heat because I overheat easily.
Jenny
I hate running in the cold. I hate it. I don’t like wearing layers, I prefer to wear shorts and tank tops. But the crappy thing for the heat is the sun in my eyes. I need to find a pair of sunglasses like that.
I also don’t like carrying water with me. So I try to make sure I’m really well hydrated before and then after I get back I make sure to drink a lot of water again to get rehydrated again.
Jamie
When I visit my parents at the beach, my favorite route is to loop through town and then finish along the promenade. There are about 10 shower stations for beach goers to wash off. And for overheated runners to stick their heads under to cool off.
Almarie
It’s winter were I live and it is in the 70’s today and I AM COLD. I’m wearing long sleeves and a very warm jacket. Saturday I did my long run in very low temp (45) and I could not feel my hands, I was freezing!
Dejah
You must be talking Celsius. :)
Almarie
Sadly it is 70 fahrenheit witch is 21 degrees celsius. Check out South Africa’s climate and you will understand….. .that is what we call winter. I admire the girls running in snow, I will stay in bed and feel sorry for myself.
Robyn @ Robyn's Livin' Life
I just do less mileage and go slower in the summer- I try to put less pressure on myself for times and distance and do what feels good!
Suzy
I love the heat. I hate the cold! I don’t carry water, but when I do a long run in the heat I will loop back to my car and chug some Gatorade or water that I’ve previously frozen. My friend Lora keeps a cooler in the back of her car so when we run together, I keep my drinks nice and chilled in her trunk!
MK
I like trail running when it’s hot/humid! I get competitive with times and speeds, so when I trail run, I KNOW I’ll be slower than street running, so that takes some pressure off. Also woods provide sun coverage and dirt doesn’t get as hot as asphalt! Also no cars = no added smog to make your hot/humid run ever grosser.
Kristen
I think I would rather run in the heat. I struggle with the layering bit of running in winter plus I’ve really been hating the cold these past couple winters.
I run with water plus I’ll leave an extra icy water bottle in the car (if I’ve driven to where I’m running). There are never water fountains where I run so that isn’t an option. When I’m visiting my parents I’ll bring some cash and start/end at the convenience store so I can treat myself to something good and cold… like ice cream.
Allegra
I was just in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico and the humidity and heat were intense! Took a lot of getting used to! I just made sure i got out running early, decreased my distance, and slowed my pace.
I definitely prefer the freezing cold.
Jenni
I’m so glad I don’t have a Tv to watch the Bachelor…it’s one of those shows you hate to watch but you can’t help it. Are those Mac Rogas you’re wearing in the first pic – fresh green? Thanks, sorry for all the clothes questions.
I used to live/run in the humidity a couple of years ago and it was Hard. I ended up cutting down big time on my mileage at the beginning, but after a year I became accustomed to it – still wasn’t easy but I was able to run longer at least. I can’t decide what’s worse – humidity or dry heat (which I run in now).
Laur
I always try to carry a water bottle with me when it’s really hot outside, but running a circle helps a lot sometimes. Plus, it makes you want to get back to the beginning point faster. ;-)
Why are babies/toddlers curls always perfect?
Susan
I run before the sun comes up so really avoid the heat. Currently our morning temps are right around 55 degrees–perfect. I would much rather run in cold than heat. Cold doesn’t bother my lungs at all and I have awesome gear so except for when the ground is snow/ice, I really don’t notice a difference.
Ashley @ A Lady Goes West
Even though I grew up in the Florida heat, I’ve never liked hot outdoor running. So I stick to the group fitness studio for my workouts in the summer months for sure! Great tips, J. Water, water, water is key for recovery from sweaty sessions! And nice work on all your boot camps!
Natalie @ Never Serious Blog
I thin it might just be because I’m from Texas, but I always carry water with me – sometimes even in the winter! And one of the only tips I’ve got for dealing with the INSANE humidity is to just slow the heck down! It’s tough, but I’ve seen a lot of great runners push themselves too hard during the crazy summer heat, and wind up majorly dehydrated or sometimes even hospitalized. Sometimes it’s not worth it, so I just look forward to the fall and winter months! :)
Angie @ Pace With Grace
Great tips! I would rather run in cold than humidity. I also set my alarm extra early to get my runs in before the heat/humidity really hits. There are those mornings that even early doesn’t beat the humidity but those usually don’t hit until July/August here in WI.
I have that Brooks hat and love it too!
I carry a handheld water bottle and this helps so much in staying hydrated in the heat. Took some getting used to but I’m sure glad I have it when I need it!
Nona @ RunningHigh
Great tips! It was close to 80* when I went out yesterday! Eesh. It’s still pretty cool in the mornings here (in the 30s), so I’d rather run in the warmer weather. I’m over the cold! Can’t wait until mornings get to be about 50 or so. That’s my favorite time to run!
Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious
I think it’s important to hydrate all day long even when you’re not running so that when you do run you’re body hasn’t been deprived. Water is a weird one. Once you get behind on drinking, you can’t catch up because the body can only consume so much at a time. I also think just realizing that you’re gonna be slow in the hotter months.
Kimberly
Which sunless tanner is the easiest to apply and the least messiest, meaning it won’t rub off on sheets or clothes?
The Hungry Runner Girl
I honestly love my Jergens one the best… plus it is the cheapest. It does still rub off every now and then but not nearly as much as other brands on me personally!
Kimberly
It takes me a long time to get any color to my skin. Do you have to apply it everyday? Also, do you wear gloves when you apply it?
Thanks so much Janae!
Kristen @ Glitter and Dust
When it comes to running in the heat, I always wear comfortable clothing and bring my hydration pack – even if it’s a shorter run. Water is KEY! When I am running around town during the summer, there are enough drinking foundations along the trails that I don’t need to bring my own water – but in the winter I always carry water for longer distances.
I would definitely prefer freezing temps to hot temps when it comes to running. That’s what I love about Central Oregon… even in the summer if you get up early enough the temperatures are perfect and cool before the heat of the day sets in.
Bachelorette = So. Much. Drama.
Sabrina Alexaundra
I really think this will be the summer for me to find a new activity to stay active with. Maybe its a change in my body, but the humidity in Florida is just too much already.
I am going to watch last nights Bachelorette in just a few!
MaryM
According to your chart, I live in the “Expect pace to suffer greatly and skip it or dramatically alter goal” range. When it first starts getting hot (and humid), I go inside on the treadmill for a while so my body can adjust to the heat while keeping up my pace/endurance so I won’t lose it or take a step backward. Now that I have adjusted, I get outside by the 6:00 am time frame while the temperatures are cooler (70 degrees) and while the sun is not so strong. But, if I am doing a longer run and it is getting hot, I notice my pace slowing.
I also wear a very cool shirt (Nike Breeze/Nike Cool Breeze) that breathes well. I wear poly shirts not nylon (they stay wet for me) or cotton (death in heat and humidity). I was never a hat person but I always wear a hat, wear sunglasses, and bring along my Nathan handheld with water. I recently got one Nathan Handheld that holds my iPhone and has water. I no longer have to use the one on my arm (yay!!!). It got so hot and sweaty and would slip down so I was glad to get rid of it.
I watched the Bachelor last night and I was wondering why I was watching it. Kaitlyn is all about fun and being funny but you never see her get any deeper. Maybe in the weeks to come but I think she avoids those things.
I really appreciate your list of 20 things last week. Because of your list, I figured out one of my problems. I was not fueling my body sufficiently. It hit me last week after reading the list and I did so much better this past weekend. :) So, thanks!
Kris @ Canadian Girl Runs.
Running in the heat means making sure I’m always hydrated, before, during, and after a run. I can’t just head out the door without drinking water ALL day or I will be super dehydrated.
I think I would rather run in freezing temps but once it gets below -15 degrees Celsius, I’m out!
I carry water with me because I don’t think there is a single water fountain in my city. It’s ridiculous! I get so jealous when you find water fountains on your run!! Great tips for the heat girl!! :D
Tricia @ A Couple of Dashes
i was FINALLY able to get together with a friend and catch Pitch Perfect 2 last night so I missed The Bachelorette. I’m planning on catching up tonight though. It’s such a silly show, but I HAVE to watch it. I don’t understand! Hahha
Ashley @ Saving Money in your Twenties
I love all of these tips! I definitely have to remember to let myself get acclimated to the heat. I’ve been just going on long walks a lot lately and even those feel insanely difficult in the heat!
Lily @ Lily Runs the World
I used to live in Georgia and I’d describe the summer as “extremely oppressive” for sure. I’m so impressed with people that train in severe heat (or cold), and I think it definitely makes you tougher. I’m lucky to live somewhere where I don’t have to think about weather conditions much!
Annette @ Sweating Through Life
The weather where I live is so bipolar you never know what to expect. Running conditions are rarely ideal so I have to adapt daily. Currently, 50s and rain. 2 days ago, 85 and humid. I never “put away” my cold running clothes, even in the summer. Running in the humidity is just something that I have to deal with here…so I tend to go later in the evenings, or if ambitious early in the morning when it is a bit less humid, and pray for rain. That’s the best advice I’ve got, just pray for rain:)
elizabeth
I like the blue tank you wore to bootcamp, what kind is it?
The Hungry Runner Girl
Hey! It is a Brooks one! Here is the link:
http://www.brooksrunning.com/en_us/brooks-womens-versatile-printed-racerback-iv/220878.html?dwvar_220878_color=383#start=9
elizabeth
Thank you!
Drew
Hey Janae! Thanks for the tips! Cross country season is starting next week and because I am a cheerleader at my school as well, I will be missing some practices because of cheer practice (no biggie!). It’ll be hot on some of my own runs since cc usually practices in the morning, but I will have to run in midday/afternoon UT conditions. These tips really helped!
I did your track workout today on the treadmill and HOLY COW! I don’t think I have ever sweat so much in my life!! Thanks for the good sweat girl!
ALSO: Do you have any advice for incoming cc runners? I’d love to read a post about that! Thanks!(:
Kelli at Not Your Mama's Marathon
Oh man I wish I could do a trail run on the Bonneville Shoreline right now. So jealous!
Tip for running in the humidity: just get up and DO IT before the sun gets too high! You have to get up before or with the sun if you don’t want to be too hot. Otherwise you will regret it. Also lots and lots of water. The more humid it is, the more you sweat, and the more you sweat the more water you lose.
I usually carry a water bottle on long runs but I also rely on water fountains even when I do, since I have to fill it up if I go over an hour!
Fiona @ Get Fit Fiona
I’d pick being cold over being hot. On really hot nights at soccer I’ve been known to bring more than one water bottle, because one just isn’t enough. I also like to put lots of ice in them to keep them nice and cool.
CC
Great tips for running in the heat. I totally prefer running in cold weather, must be the Minnesotan in me. 20-40F is my optimal running temperature.
I don’t usually carry water with me but when it’s super humid and hot I sometimes do. My only tip for running in the humid weather (it’s been 80s with 80% humidity here) is to suck it up. I’ve been running by the river at night because it seems a bit cooler and gets a nice breeze.
Sheena @ Paws and Pavement
I had a race last Saturday (half marathon) and when I left my house at 5:30am my car said it was 73 out! It was hot and muggy for the race so my pace did suffer. I made sure to walk through all the water stops and drink lots of water. I had a nice layer of salt on my face from sweating so much so I made sure to up my salt intake later that day too!
Kayse Hinrichsen
Love Brooke’s water wings, so adorable! I do not do well in heat, I used to run in Florida and South Africa but now I live in Alaska and 70 is crazy hot to me. I drank most of my 2 liter marathoner vest water this weekend on my 10 mile run. Next year I will be heat training to prep for triathlons in Hawaii and the lower 48.
Maddie @ Dixie Runs
I’m so excited to run outside today because it’s only a high of 77!! And that’s just because it’s raining… it has been in the high 80’s/low 90’s here in NC for the past few weeks. It’s awful to run in, but I just make sure I choose a shaded route and keep myself hydrated. I’ve also been using the treadmill for a lot of my shorter runs and doing my long runs in the mornings.
Carina
It’s usually least humid later in the day (before sunset), but since I run in Texas, that’s just not an option since it’s SO hot then in the summer. So instead I choose to run early, before the sun comes up. It’s the most humid part of the day usually, but also usually the lowest temperature.
Erin @ Erin's Inside Job
If I could not run in the humidity I wouldn’t. That’s my advice haha. If it is hot AND humid I just have to make sure to get my runs in early in the morning before it gets unmanageable. That’s a good piece of advice regardless though when heat is a factor.
Jessica @ Laces and Lattes
I take hot temperature runs ANY DAY because it means it is summer. i adjust my expectations but I find I don’t run with water enough. It always takes a couple weeks for me to get used to heat training but I love a good sweat.
meredith @ Cookie ChRUNicles
Humidity is definitely tough but your tips are great and definitely apply! I just try to run earlier when it’s more humid and I expect to sweat a whole lot more than usual! Once it’s July though, I am adjusted to the season and do okay, it takes a little time though to get to that point :)
Amber C
My run on Sunday was 70 degrees with 90% humidity. I slowed by pace, but the humidity didn’t seem to bother me. Probably because I was so distracted by my bouncing water pack. Note to self: Don’t choose an 11 mile run to try out a new item. I usually use a handheld waterbottle, but wanted to free up my hands, so I found a Nathan belt with a bottle that lays sideways. Well, it’s great in theory, but I had to play music because of the sloshing sound and the belt material kept wanting to move around regardless of how I adjusted it and where I let it lay (hips, below hips) Needless to say, I returned that sucker!
Does anyone have a belt that they really like??
Meghan Weller
These are great tips! It is already getting hot here in Kentucky!! I ran a 10 mile loop on Sunday and it was so humid I felt like I was swimming…
When the temperatures are high I used to really on water fountains but I learned the hard way that doesn’t always work so now I carry a small handheld bottle and stop to refill it if necessary.
Peggi
I live in Houston so I run in the humidity all the time. I guess I am just used to it :) Come down to Houston and run with me, lol!
The Hungry Runner Girl
I don’t think I could last a mile in that humidity! YOU ARE AMAZING!
Danielle
I would follow your same tips for humidity as I would for the heat. Here in PA we deal with lots of humidity. As for water I bring my own on any run over 8 miles now. Im so used to using a handheld now but I bought a hydration pack for runs 16+. I am typically on trails so I cant count on water fountains. I think Id rather run in the heat than the cold however its just the start of warm weather hear my answer will probably change by the end of the summer haha.
PS I never knew the Gap had a fit line!
Pille @ LivingOnTheRun
I hate running in the heat I definitely prefer cold weather. I have to carry water for hot runs as water fountains are not really a thing here unfortunately..
P.s. I love your blue vest, where is it from?
Paula
Ugh, the humidity. I’m a FL runner and have naturally curly hair, so my advice for humid running is to brush your hair through liberally with leave-in conditioner BEFORE running to discourage as much tangling as possible. Also, feel no shame about running in just a sports bra. Even the best sweat-wicking technology cannot handle central Florida conditions on a long run. Husband just got me a camelback for long runs, and I plan on tossing it in the fridge before I go so I can at least feel something cool on my back.
Leah M
Definitely carry water. I had to learn how to without getting super frustrated. We have NO water fountains around town. Sometimes I’ll take a card or cash so I can get a drink, but I really hate going in anywhere when I’m that …fresh.
Humidity (southeaster Oklahoma here) is nothing to mess with. I run all summer, but no more than 5-7 miles. I’m an evening runner because of my work schedule, but even at 5am it’s thick out. I try to drink 7-8 16oz bottles of water during the day at my office, then a bit of Gatorade or Powerade before my run. Water or Nuun during, and pickle juice after.
Hydrate, stretch, hydrate, stretch. That’s about all you can do.
Runwright
That’s sucks. I run in the park and sometimes I stop at every water fountain. I don’t know where you are but maybe you should try running in the park more.
Melissa
-When humidity plays a factor, I take water with me and try to run early (like sunrise).
-I don’t watch the Bachelor. I just can’t do it.
-I would rather run in cold weather. As a Michigander I welcome cold LOL!
-I always carry water for 5+ miles or if it’s humid out. But I always have water available in the car for once the run is done.
Runwright
I missed the Bachelorette last night so I’m going to Hulu it later.
I hate that Chris and Whitney broke up. I really thought they had a shot. She seemed really invested. But like I said, you have better luck marrying a guy you met in a bar than on this show. The stats are horrible but it’s entertaining like nothing else.
Tedi @ running with infertility
I’ve only ran once in summer humidity and I thought I went early enough (7am) but it wasn’t early enough to beat the heat and I about died! I only made it 2 miles when I had wanted to run 3… So I think taking water and getting up before the sun will help.
I had a friend tell me when she lived in southern Utah she would get up at 3 or 4am to beat the heat for her long runs. Crazy what we will do to get a good run in! :)
ctl
I love that table with the temperatures! I’m extremely heat-sensitive and struggle with hard running anywhere above 60F. The table makes me feel so much better because it looks like I’m not alone!
One small thing, Janae — I really hate to preach or push advice on people I don’t know… But please be careful with Brooke playing anywhere near equipment in a gym. A few years ago, one of our neighbors brought her 3 year old to a physical therapy appointment, and while she was in her session a piece of very heavy equipment fell on the child and he was killed. I know the chance of that happening are one in a million, and you are probably very careful and protective of Brooke. So, I don’t mean to criticize. I just have to mention it because the pictures reminded me of this horrible tragedy. Sorry for the dark thoughts… :(
The Hungry Runner Girl
Thank you so much for sharing with me. You can never be too careful and I will definitely be rethinking this!
Brittnee
I would rather run in freezing cold in 500 layers with snot frozen to my face :) than run in the heat and humidity. I always start super early before the sun, but that’s usually when the humidity is the worst, but it’s only a few months of the year, I can handle it!
I’m struggling with this season of the Bachelorette, I just can’t get into it like usual. I think she has some interesting guys though!
Dejah
Does anyone have a good recommendation for a hydration belt/handheld bottle, etc? I bought my current one from Target and I don’t like it! It rides up and the bottle leaks!
Carolyn
I use the Nathan Trail Mix belt for runs up to 5 miles. It has two 10 oz bottles. It stays in place without bouncing, but I did have to go through some trial and error when figuring out where to adjust it Nathan has some really nice handhelds too, but I found that I really didn’t like the feeling of my hand sweating on the bottle.
I use Nathan’s Zeal hydration vest for runs longer than 5 miles. Not only does it have a 2 liter hydration bladder, but it also has a front pocket for another 20 oz bottle! I use the other front pockets to hold my phone, gels, and Chapstick so I never have to take the pack off my back to access those items. It is extremely comfortable too!
Gracie
My area is pretty humid, and the best advice I can offer is to hydrate BEFORE your run. I make sure to drink a full glass of water before I run, and I replace electrolytes after any run in the double digits.
Heather
I live in Florida and trained for my ironman all summer long last summer which meant 3 hour runs and 6 hour bike rides in 100 degree temps with 90-100% humidity. I agree with the water consumption, but more importantly I think is making sure you are getting electrolytes back in. I also began using Osmo nutrition which has a product to drink the day before that is a combo of salty/sweet (pre-load) that prepares your body for all the salt loss. So try and stay hydrated, but dont forget the electrolytes and salt and an ice bath is always great to help with recovery.
Robyn
I’m Australian!! I’ve learned to run in our blistering summer heat but now it’s coming into winter and I can’t deal with the cold air hitting my lungs!!! No idea how you guys run with snow and ice when I can’t even handle cold air. Summer running is amazing if you get out early enough xx
Faith @Run the Day
Thanks for the tips! They will be useful in Florida this summer… I’d so much rather be freezing cold than super hot. Same goes for when I’m running!
Carolyn
I don’t ever recall ever being able to handle humidity at all, much less while running!
I have not watched the Bachelor since maybe season 4? I am over how contrived it is, and it drives me nuts!
I would totally run in freezing temps instead of hot. I think my coldest training run this past winter was 20 degrees and I was out there for about 2.5 hours. I seem to run 30 degrees hotter than everyone else, so cold weather running is more tolerable for me. Give me a warm hat, gloves and a few layers and I am good to go.
I always have to carry water with me because I take constant sips throughout my runs. I use a Nathan hydration belt for runs up to 5 miles. I use a Nathan hydration vest with a 2 liter bladder for longer runs.
Nicole
Hi Janae! I just stumbled across your blog and this article seems tailor made for me right now! I live in South Carolina on the coast and it is HOT and MUGGY! I was wondering if you had any suggestions for running shorts that stay in place? It’s too darn hot for pants or even capris! I have thick thighs that rub together, so I’d like them to be a little longer if possible, but I haven’t been able to find anything I like. Help!
Roxana
Hi Nicole! I like running in bike shorts so they don’t run up your leg. Walmart has great shorts & tank tops! Stay cool;)
Roxana
I live in Phoenix! I left the house at 6:30 am last Saturday and it was already hot. This Saturday I’m leaving at 6 am then 5:30 am in July. I carry water & Gatorade with me and use water to cool my body. I use to wear a headband but that would just give a heat headache. I also drink coffee after my run so I don’t get nauseous. Unfortunately, I’ve lost interest in the Bachelorate this season;(
Elle
The Bachelorette is weird this season so far. It seems like the guys are way more confrontational and schemey than usual…
We have tons of humidity here in Kansas, but my best tip is just to allow yourself to adjust to it. It seems easier the more the you do it.
Aoife
What I wouldn’t give to need these tips! This is the best day we’ve had here (Killarney, Ireland) in ages – and it’s 59 degrees with 64% humidity.
Definitely need those sunless tanners…
Sarahf
I live in West Japan, where it is crazy humid from June to September. Now is the worst, because rainy season has just started, no one likes rainy season! Getting up early to run is the best plan, but they also have a bunch of cool stuff here to help you keep cool. Cool neckerchiefs (I have no idea how to spell that) are amazing enough for me to wear them when I walk to work, even though I look like a boy scout!
Jackie
We have nasty humidity here, pretty much same rules apply as in hot weather-go early, stay HYDRATED with COLD water, and if it’s getting to be too much dunk your hat in a cold water fountain. I’ll admit, I’m weird, this is my favorite time to run, I like being extra sweaty, feels like I’m accomplishing more lol
Salina
I run in the humidity but where I live the humidity is bad in the afternoon. So I try and run early morning. Also for heat, usually run where I pass water fountains because I hate carrying a water bottle! I do not like running in freezing temperatures so I take it inside to the treadmill in the winter typically. I’m all for running in hot temperatures.
The Bachelor is just so weird and I cannot tell if the whole JJ and Clint thing is fake for ratings or if Clint is really into him.
Kay
These are great tips, thank you!
Alyssa @ RenaissanceRunnerGirl
Thanks for these tips! I have run three half marathons in cooler than expected conditions (think 25-40 degrees Fahrenheit) so it’s a challenge to prepare properly for my next half, the Disneyland Half in Anaheim over Labor Day – since it will be the complete opposite!