There are reasons to run in hot, humid temperatures. Say, for example, you're training for the Queens or Bronx half marathons, and you're looking to mimic race-day conditions. Or you're looking at at a fall marathon and need to get the mileage in.
Then there are the reasons *not* to run in such conditions, or at least tailor your workout to accommodate the heat. Such as today's poor excuse: a 12+-mile run (should have been 15), which started with some promise and slowly dribbled away (like the water I vainly poured over my heat in an attempt to stay cool.) Note to self: a run around the Green-Wood cemetery sounds like a good idea (a little variety, little traffic ... and no water fountains. Yes, there a couple of bodegas, if I'd planned a bit more ahead).
I don't care that the Watchtower clock said it was 73 degrees when I crossed the Brooklyn Bridge later - the strength-zapping humidity more than made up for it. I'd also think my body had at least acclimatized, a little, to the temperatures given the weather over the last few weeks. Uh uh.
I know others feel my pain. And probably some of my dehydration (despite drinking Gatorade, water and lemonade for several hours, it wasn't until mid-afternoon before the need to use the bathroom arose). It seems a lot more humid sooner in the year (could just be me).
So, to actually add some value to this vent, let me steal a line from when of the better cop shows: "Let's be careful out there." Don't overdo it. Make sure you're hydrated. And run smart (i.e. modify your workout to take into account the temperatures.)
1 comment:
I also did a long run on Saturday morning just to be sure I still could (especially in this heat) since in a fit of excitement I registered for both the Bronx and Queens half. Have you run both races before? Any insight on the courses? Would love if you could post about both races!
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