Tips for running in the heat: Hi everyone I’m... - Bridge to 10K

Bridge to 10K

16,523 members26,581 posts

Tips for running in the heat

Sssara profile image
21 Replies

Hi everyone

I’m a relatively new runner, did couch to 5k on the treadmill but then discovered the joy of park run and outdoor running. I’ve been regularly running 5k and have started following the 10k plan here to increase my mileage

But the minute it’s sunny and the temperature hits 18 degrees I struggle to even manage 5k.

Does anyone have any tips for getting better at running in the heat? Or is it just a case of doing it more and getting use to it eventually?

Written by
Sssara profile image
Sssara
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
21 Replies
Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate10

Run early or late...try to find shady routes...hydrate well all the time and especially now...carry water for pouring over wrists.. and rubbing on the back of the neck...😉

Sssara profile image
Sssara in reply toOldfloss

I haven’t been carrying water (I guess because I’m not running far it didn’t cross my mind) so will definitely try rubbing it over the wrists and neck. Thanks!

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate10 in reply toSssara

I don't carry water normally unless running over 10K..but this humidity can catch you out... x

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate10 in reply toOldfloss

Why on the wrists?

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate10 in reply toMuddledGardener

Really great way to cool you down quickly and safely..pulse points😉

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate10 in reply toOldfloss

Ooh! I didn’t know that!

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate10 in reply toMuddledGardener

It does actually work...I get very hot in the night..(no laughing)..and running the cold tap over the wrists for about 30 seconds, works wonders...

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate10 in reply toOldfloss

🤣🤣🤣 Sorry! Reflex action!

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate10 in reply toMuddledGardener

I always was hot stuff!:)xx

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate10 in reply toOldfloss

Bahahaha!!!

Buddy34 profile image
Buddy34Graduate10 in reply toMuddledGardener

I always remember someone telling me to hold my wrists under the cold tap to cool down and it works 😊

Tasha99 profile image
Tasha99Graduate10

Buy a lightweight running cap. Direct sunlight is the worst. I hate summer heat for running! Winter is much better!

Sssara profile image
Sssara

Thanks! Next run is Tuesday (when it’s supposed to be hotter 😬) so going to try these tips and see how I go

Irishprincess profile image
IrishprincessGraduate10

1.Run early morning or late evening.

2.Run near trees as it’s cooler.

3.Make sure you’re well hydrated before you start.

4. Wear as few clothes as decently possible 😉

5. Wear a hat and sunglasses.

6. Put a small towel soaked in water in the freezer. This will be explained later *

7. Dunk your whole head in water before your run. This cools the body’s temperature albeit temporarily but it really feels lovely and keeps you cool for a time.

8. Run very slowly.

9. When you get home drink water and put the frozen towel * around your neck/face. Bliss 🥵😘

10. Fantasise about winter running 🙂

in reply toIrishprincess

I'm liking the towel thing , sound like a plan 😉👌✌

Irishprincess profile image
IrishprincessGraduate10 in reply to

My husband first did this for me after a race on a hot day and it was just such a relief! I walked around for a while looking like a boxer 😂😂

in reply toIrishprincess

😂😂👌✌

Slinkymalinki profile image
SlinkymalinkiGraduate10

I prefer to wear a buff (a tip gleaned from this forum). I soak it in water then fold it into a sort of thick hairband. During the run you can tip a bit of water on it & pop it back on or give your face a quick wipe. There is an official 'buff' company but I got a cheaper version from Mountain Warehouse which works fine for me.

Sybilw profile image
SybilwGraduate10

I completed the 9 weeks in the heat of last year (it was hot but not over 30 like this week!) and had to pick my times and routes carefully. However look on the bright side because you’ll be an experienced runner when to cooler weather comes. Just be careful then not to overdress - dress for 5 degrees warmer than it actually is. You’ll soon get the balance right. Good luck and don’t be afraid to just wait till the weather is suitable.

Flyingred profile image
FlyingredGraduate10

Run early or skip a day if it's too hot. Otherwise run slow and steady and avoid sprints/intervals/speed work until the weather changes again.

Sssara profile image
Sssara

Thanks everyone. I ran at 7am this morning and in Reading it was cool and overcast 😂 But I’m sure I’ll need the tips later this week!

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Tips for running in the heat?

I've signed to to a 10k race this Friday. Have done the training and finished two 10k practice...
Teresa1632 profile image
Graduate10

Running in the heat

Does anyone enjoy running in hot weather? I used to prefer cool weather but kind of enjoy running...

Running in the heat 😅

Hi all! It's hot today!!! Here is a link to Oldfloss' post on C25K about the dehydrating effects...
roseabi profile image

Running in the heat 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🌞🌞

This is my first run since sunday . Now on sundays run I was soaked right through then today its...
Buddy34 profile image
Graduate10

Running in the heat

Any advice for running In warmer weather, really start to struggle over 10° Flushes don't help...
Fifitat50 profile image

Moderation team

See all
MissUnderstanding profile image
MissUnderstandingAdministrator
Annieapple profile image
AnnieappleAdministrator
Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministrator

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.