The soupy morning air clung to my clothes and body, as I began my run. I felt heavy as if a force pulling me down, I remembered to smile and keep moving. It’s hard to stay motivated when it’s hot and humid. Summertime in South Florida is unbearable. The heat and humidity is a slap in the face. It feels like a combination of a blow torch to your face and standing in sauna as the sweat immediately hits the brow. At 5:30 am it’s 78 degrees with 90% humidity the first thing that comes to mind is, “This heat sucks.” That is not the mindset to have to stay on course, but I still have to get the run in.
I haven’t alway been a runner, or a consistent runner. I started to get serious incorporating a healthy lifestyle over six years ago. The days I did run I felt so good, the feeling lasted the entire day. The days I didn’t run my body was sluggish, my brain in a fog. Summer weather should never stop the running process. Matter of fact when I train in the heat it pushes my body to limits I never expected and keeps me on track, so when the weather is cooler, I run more efficient and faster. In the heat, I am slower, it feels like I’m running with weights. The key is to keep hydrated, bring a cool cloth, and extra water to douse down. My philosophy is “A bad running day is better than staying in bed.” Very true statement.
Once I get up and moving I just feel better. Summer running requires an adjustment period, perhaps a slower pace or a shorter distance (depending on how hot it is), just getting up and moving will bring many benefits for a long time. For me, one of the benefits of living in South Florida is after the run I jump in the pool to cool off. I grab a “Body Armor” sports drink to re-hydrate along with plenty of water throughout the day. Summer running consists of adjustments, slower pace, and just getting out the door. Your body, mind and spirit will thank you.