Running in the humidity... Tips??

dsak
dsak Posts: 367 Member
edited November 2024 in Social Groups
I'm a fairly new runner and I've only moved my running outdoors as of last October. All-in-all we've had some great weather this winter, and I've been able to run outside every other day. However, I definitely see a slowdown and it is harder to run for me when it is hot/humid out.!Just wondering if anyone has any tips for dealing with the heat and especially the humidity (aside from running inside on the treadmill).

Replies

  • TJMcQN
    TJMcQN Posts: 19 Member
    Time of day would be the first on the list but equally important is adjusting your pace. When the humidity is higher it is harder for evaporation to take place and evaporation causes cooling. Adequate hydration, slower pace and run during the coolest time of the day (usually early morning) are the suggestions that come to my mind. Possible cross training (bike, swim, etc) if there is an interest may also be considered. At any rate, best of luck and we'll see you at the races.
  • When I lived in South Fl., I ran at nightfall. Stay well hydrated prior to running. It was never (humidity) an issue for me. My 'tip' is so obvious but some people just don't do it. :glasses:
  • OceansForever
    OceansForever Posts: 221 Member
    Before I had my treadmill, I would go out really early in the morning, with my reflective vest, flash light and pepper spray. It was nice running in the dark but the humidity is still pretty bad.

    I always joked that I would grow gills by the time the summer humidity was over.

    Now I am just using the treadmill which also helps me when my sciatica kicks in because I can just limp of there instead of limping a couple miles back home :)

    I could never do nights because the mosquitoes are more bothersome (to me at least) at night time.
  • AllanMisner
    AllanMisner Posts: 4,140 Member
    I think they've hit on the key points: Hydration, run when it's cooler, and slow down.

    Above all, monitor how you feel (you can also buy a HRM and see what the humidity and heat does to your workout. I'd also recommend getting a health check with your doctor and see if there are any concerns with you continuing your running program. With all exercise, push yourself, but do it responsibly.
  • Nharley
    Nharley Posts: 201
    I have been doing a modified version of couch to 5k.... in that I *try* to walk/run 3-5 miles every morning. I drop #1 son off at school in my exercise clothes and as soon as I am home head out (about 7:45am) with the dog for a good 1.5 hours of that combo. After 3 months I am comfortably running for 20 minutes at a time. That means I am not gasping for air afterwards, just comfortably out of breath. I have noticed ( I live just north of Orlando in between Sanford and Daytona) this last week before this cooler weather, I should have taken water with me. The heat even that early and the humidity has me quite parched by time I finish my route. One day last week I waited until 11am to do my route and regretted that I did take water! I agree with the other posters: bring and drink water ~ and as the heat increases as often as possible. When you get home make sure you stay hydrated the rest of the day as well.
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