7 Hacks For Running

In spite of the summer heat, tons of runners still want to continue their healthy routine. Although warmth can seriously affect running performance, there are several ways you'll counteract the consequences. Here are seven hacks for running during summer time.

Run at the coolest time. One of the hacks you'll do to avoid the summer heat is run during the good point of the day. Good thing, free software and a few apps can show the temperature highs and lows for the day or maybe for the week so you'll schedule your run accordingly. Usually, sunrise and sunset are the coolest times. Midday is the hottest. But since weather changes are often abrupt, it is best you check an app.

Look for a shady alternate route. Every runner has that favorite route. But when it comes to extreme weather conditions, you may need an alternative route to keep you safer from the elements. During summer, choose less open routes. Settle for more shades, like areas with more buildings and trees. Nowadays, there are apps that may calculate the space of the route using GPS. They also show visuals. Use the app to get the distance. That way, you continue to get an equivalent distance you run in your usual route.

Wear sweat-wicking clothes.

Even by regular standards, sweatpants and baggy clothes are a no-no. You don't want them flapping around, then heavy and sweat-soaked in several minutes. Luckily, sweat-wicking clothes are now available in stores. Brands like Adidas, Nike and Under Armour have running apparel which takes sweat from your body and lets it evaporate inform of your clothes. This way, you are cooled off, feel more comfortable and lessen your risk of being exposed to bacteria build-up. Most of those clothes are lightweight and stylish, adding more appeal to the technological benefits they already provide.

Wear light, breathable shoes.

If your clothes are on point, your shoes should be too. Wear trainers which are lightweight and made up of breathable materials. These sorts of shoes allow your feet to 'breathe'. Good circulation prevents hot, sweaty feet and bacteria. Heavy and stiff shoes typically wear you down. Light and versatile ones allow you to accelerate and move more efficiently.

Consume additional water.
Even before you run, you lose more fluids during summer than the other season. You lose around six to 12 ounces of fluid for every 20 minutes of running. pre-hydrate before you run. Drink an additional glass of water. Look for possible 'hydration' stations as well. Drinking fountains in the path, or even a convenience store you can buy some water or sports drinks.

Wear sunscreen.

The sun's rays are good for you. But they can also be unforgiving, especially during the summer. Don't forget to apply some sunscreen. Even a thin layer with a high SPF will help protect your skin from certain cancers and diseases.

Run by feel.

For sure you've got a target pace, time and distance you would like to realize. But before you are trying to succeed in that, get the texture of your run. The heat and humidity will affect your performance despite your best efforts. So don't force it. Acclimatize by running at a slower pace. Adjust on the fly. If it feels you'll be exerted double the effort just to achieve your goal, tone it down a bit. Don't force anything. Work on your target slowly but surely.