By Vickie Leff, aka “RunnerMom,” LCSW, CCM

 

Summer is here. It’s hot, humid, and sticky. But don’t let that stop you from continuing to run or getting started! Try some of these practical tips to make it easier for you to run this summer.  

  1. Run early in the morning (like 6 a.m.), before the heat gets really bad. You will feel so much better for the whole day.
  2. Drink about a half glass of your favorite sports drink before you head out. This can help to keep your sodium and other electrolyte levels in check. Not too much, though, or you’ll need to go to the bathroom during your run!
  3. Use cheap, thin washcloths to wipe sweat. Tuck them into the waistband of your shorts as you run (like golfers do). OK, it looks stupid, but you’ll be happy you have them!
  4. Don’t wear cotton. When cotton gets wet it will stick to you. There are tons of performance fabrics designed to whisk away moisture. Ditto on running shorts. 
  5. Use a scarf (such as a Buff) around your neck or as a headband. Soak it in cold water and wring it out before you head out. 
  6. Keep your water nice and cold using this trick: Fill your water belt containers with water (or sports drink) the night before and put them in the freezer. (Leave a little room at the top because the water will expand in the freezer.) Take them out when you are ready and your water will stay cold during your run. Use a fuel belt so you don’t have to carry the freezing bottle! 
  7. Use chaffing lotion. (BodyGlide works well.) As you sweat, certain spots can get really irritated. Put the lotion on before you run.
  8. Use vented sunglasses (you will need to get these at a running store), with nose and ear grips so they don’t slide.
  9. Listen to winter music. “Oh the weather outside is frightful …”
  10. Get a zip-off sports bra. These are the greatest thing since sliced bread, so easy and comfortable.

The summer can be a great time to start running or to train for a race. Sure, it can get pretty hot out there, but with a little help you can beat the heat and feel great! For more tips, go to www.runnermom.com. 

 

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Vickie Rance Leff, LCSW, CCM, is the mother of two children, ages 18 and 16. She is the author of “RunnerMom: On The Go,” which is available on Amazon.com. At 44 she ran her first marathon (Camp Lejeune Marathon) and won her age division because she was the only one IN her age division. She has also completed the 2002 Chicago Marathon, the 2002 New York Marathon, the 2003 and 2005 Boston marathons, the 2011 Marine Corp Marathon, and is in training for the 2012 New York Marathon. She’s a back-of-the-pack runner who never comes in last. Visit her website at www.runnermom.com.