Heat training takes a lot of care, commitment and mindfulness. It shouldn't be approached lightly. The past week or two the temperatures have reached the upper 90's to 100 degrees everyday. It's hard to run fast in this heat and on long runs a mistake can be severe. I have been training once to twice a day to acclimate to the heat for Catoctin 50k held at the end of this month. They'll be no escaping the heat there and it will be a very long day. So the more I run in the heat the better - the smarter I run in the heat is even better. Unfortunately I am somewhat notorious for under nourishing and hydrating and I'm seeking to change that this year. Hydration is first - not only can poor hydration (and electrolyte consumption) cost a race - it can cost a life. And on the flip side excess water consumption can create an electrolyte imbalance and be just as deadly as dehydration. It's a fine line to run. So electrolyte tablets (S -caps)are a most along with the frequent water breaks.Most importantly is the mindfulness of what my body is doing in a given moment and monitoring my performance. Poor performance for a well trained athlete spells trouble - it's a sign something is off and to fix it sooner rather then later. Again mindfulness. Electrolyte repleacment drinks work fine as well with my favorit being my Vega - but in a pinch even Gatorade will do. I avoid most of these products in general but in heat it is better to take no chances - if that's all they have - drink it.
So that's the plan for now. Stay tuned for more hydration and fueling issues to be addressed!
Thans for reading,
Eric
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