Exercise in the heat?

salemnye

Well I'm pretty sure the USA is all pretty much 80+ degrees right now....For my exercise I typically run 2 miles OUTSIDE because the tredmil bores me and no ac in the work out room.....

Right now it's 95 degrees and quite humid too , any ideas of how to keep cool while running? Or an exercise in home that will give me the same benefits as running?

AmyRhubarb

It's hot here in California too! I do my runs early in the morning - preferably by 6:30am if I can get my butt out the door that early. Otherwise, check out this topic - great tips on hot weather running: http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/512826-running-tip-hot-weather-running?hl=running+hot

MoreBean13

I run in the heat- here's a couple tips from my personal experience:

1)wear light sweat wicking clothing, loose if possible. My absolute favorite running top is a "bubble" top from old navy- it's so loose and light it's like not wearing a shirt, without the public humiliation!
2) Carry water, and map your route so that you can refill as necessary. Get a water belt, hydration pack, camelback, or handheld water carrying device, or just suck it up and carry it. Public water fountains are great, and some convenience type stores will let you fill up for free. If you can't do that, carry some cash to buy water when needed. I actually pass by 2 hospitals where I just pop in the ER waiting room for their fountain. Double benefit, cause I'm already there if I give myself heat stroke...jk!
3) Make sure you're replacing fluids with electrolytes- you sweat out salt and you need to replace it. Energy gels and sports drinks work for this. Carry a gel, or you can easily carry the powder sticks of gatorade (or whatever) to add to your water bottle, or you can buy it. In case of emergency, carry a salt packet- I've done a couple hot weather half marathons where they hand out salt packets at the start! Note: This risk probably isn't a huge concern at the mileage the OP is doing, and much more important for long runs, but I'm including it because it's so important.
4) Pick a route that has "bail-outs" in case you don't feel well, e.g. run a 8-shaped loop with your house at the center, so you can quit if it's too uncomfortable.
5)Try to run in the evenings or early mornings. I don't do this because I run in a park that is only open/safe during daylight, but it's a good idea.