How do I beat this humidity??
So running is my preferred form of exercise, and I just got back from a semester studying abroad (hence why I am back on CC, hello Study Abroad 15...like the Freshman 15, which I never had an issue with, but the food abroad was just too darn good) in a hotter but much less humid climate. When I was there, I usually ran between 2.5 and 6 miles 4-5 days a week. I'm not fast, I usually run 10.5-11 min miles, but usually my endurance is great.
However, since returning to the US, I have not been running well at all. This morning I got up to run and was out the door by 8:15 am, and it was only 73 degrees out, but a whopping 80% humidity already. The run, quite frankly, sucked. I was sucking wind the whole time, my thighs were screaming, and sweat was stinging my eyes. I could barely eke out 2 miles. Normally, I really enjoy my runs, and of course I have a bad day here and there, but it is going to be REALLY hard to convince myself to run this summer if every run is going to be like this. Unfortunately, this humidity is typical for my area.
So, is my only option to get up even earlier in the morning to run? Will my body adjust to the new climate? Any input/experiences would be appreciated!
Options
1. Get a sweat band and a bunch of sweat wicking clothes and just do it
2. switch to a treadmill indoors
3. find a pool and swim instead
If you just do it your body will adjust to it somewhat. You just have to get acclimated.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
and replenish electrolytes.
Also try to run in head-winds, that'll help
I live in an area that is hot and very humid this time of year. Most runners are out at the crack of dawn, 5 or 5:30 am.
I arose at 4:00 am saturday morning for a run. 13.1 miles in 74 degree temps (temp at 4 am and it got hotter the whole run). Finish time was a less than desirable 6:45 am but I did it. First time ever going 13.1 miles but to say the heat and humidity weren't terrible would be a lie. My performance suffered greatly but I feel I improved by forcing myself to keep going and not give in to the desire to quit (within moderation obviously.. no need to heatstroke or anything). Just fight thru it miserably all summer and then when the fall racing season gets here I've been told you'll be far better than you even imagine for yourself.
I actually find it easier to exercise later in the day when it might be hotter but the relative humidity is generally lower. I'll take 83F and 55% relative humidity over 73F and 80% humidity any day. The breeze, if any, usually picks up more later in the day versus the relative stillness near dawn.
Agreeing with polymerchem that later in the day may be better for you, depending on your needs. Try out different times and see what you like most. Remember, you can run and stretch out, then still take a quick nap before you begin your day if you wake up very early.
Another thing to remember is that many athletes train in heat to increase their VO2max and breathing and endurance for when they race in cooler and less humid times in the year. It's going to be a lot harder, but it'll improve your running immensely.
Good luck and just keep it up! Remember to walk when you need to and drink a ton of water (8 cups is TOTALLY not enough)
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